Do you have to be religious or spiritual to practice mindfulness?

No, although mindfulness practices and principles came from contemplative traditions, the skill can be learned by anyone. No matter your religious affiliation, or whether you are an agnostic or atheist. It is a technique that can be used to engage life in a more skillful way—a way of relating to the world that is unfamiliar to many of us, but which holds great promise for those who endeavor to learn.

 

Can you learn mindfulness or meditation without formal practice?

Just as you can’t get in good physical shape without exercise, you can’t build your capacity for moment-to-moment awareness without engaging in formal mindfulness practices. This is why it is often referred to as a practice, because there is no point of arrival or graduation. It is a lifelong engagement.

 

Do you have more questions? Please email: UAMSMindfulnessProgram@uams.edu