The Interpersonal Power of Mindfulness
And How it Can Improve Your Relationships
Over the past several years, we’ve heard a lot about mindfulness. Everyone from mental health professionals to corporate leaders and wellness gurus has mentioned its benefits. Many have found mindfulness practice to be an effective tool for handling stress, dealing with anxiety, and being more productive.
What exactly is mindfulness? Most people understand it as a form of meditation but it goes deeper than that. In its simplest form, mindfulness is being aware and present in the current moment. Whether you are dealing with mental, emotional, or physical stress, you are invited to simply “sit with” whatever is happening without making any effort to suppress or indulge it.
In addition to stress or pain, mindfulness is an invaluable tool when it comes to relationships. Whether it be your spouse, co-workers, or family, the success of these relationships is built on an important foundation — communication.
When it comes to communication, not all forms of it are created equal. Arguing, defensiveness, and passive-aggressive behaviors are, unfortunately, frequently used styles of communication. When we resort to those methods, we are demonstrating a lack of awareness and self-control. Although it can be cathartic in the given moment, these methods have lasting…
