Relational Mindfulness

The Foundation of Relational Intelligence

What comes to mind when you think of mindfulness?

Meditation? Conscientiousness? Relaxation? Focus? Calm?

Chances are, whatever you’re thinking of carries a sense of individual introspection.

Before I learned to practice relational mindfulness, people and relationships would disturb any state of calm, relaxed focus I would sometimes achieve from meditation.

When interacting with others, it sometimes feels like we open up a to a deluge of involuntary stimuli. People want things. They ask for things. They express opinions. Sometimes they disagree. Sometimes we experience overwhelm or anxiety in social situations. On a bad day, all this can be disruptive to our sense of independence, freedom, connection, and well-being.

At other times, we might revel in a sense of teamwork, belonging, community and connection. This can lead to a variety of peak states like the flow of smooth coordination, unity, intimacy, or even bliss. But these moments can seem random or fleeting.

You can develop relational skills through mindful attention to how your relationships are unfolding in the present moment. Developing relational mindfulness will strengthen your ability to navigate your social world and make…