We hear a lot about Mindfulness and Meditation these days. As Christians, we are often perplexed about what these practices are, whether or not we should try them, and what—if anything—might be a better course for us as believers
According to Psychology Today, “Mindfulness is a state of active, open attention to the present. This state is described as observing one’ s thoughts and feelings without judging them as good or bad.” Those who practice mindfulness describe it as a means of clearing their heads from the noise of daily living. One of the major contributors to the adoption of mindfulness techniques in the United States is Jon Kabat-Zinn. He developed a program called Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) to reduce stress and enhance mental health. According to MBSRtraining.com, “MBSR training includes awareness of the body sensations, internal mental states, thoughts, emotions, impulses, and memories. This reduces stress and anxiety and increases well-being.” Again, the key is awareness without judging.
Mindfulness is one of many forms of meditation. Most forms of meditation, according to Mayo clinic, “have in common a quiet setting, a comfortable position, focused attention, and an open attitude.”
Some, such as Jade Wu, Ph.D., distinguish between Mindfulness and Meditation. Dr. Wu noted, “Meditation is an activity, something you do. Mindfulness, however is more of a philosophy than an activity. It’s an ideal to simply be here and now, without judgment.” She notes that you can wash your car or have a snack in a mindful way, being present in the moment. (Psychologytoday.com).
As Christians, we always need to examine practices in light of Biblical principles. There is nothing inherently wrong with either Mindfulness or meditation—what should concern us is what takes place within each practice.
According the Focus on the Family (FOF), Christians are often skeptical about these practices because of their Eastern origins. Those who are skeptical note that these practices can lead to:
1. An unhealthy degree of self-focus (this skepticism is shared in secular circles as well);
2. Support of a one-with-the cosmos worldview;
3. An emptying of the mind (which can open a person to demonic influences)
4. Encouraging escape from reality
The broader concern is summed up nicely by FOF: “Secular mindfulness is horizontal. In other words, you pay attention only to yourself. However, that approach contradicts Scripture’s teaching to have the mind of Christ, and to evaluate everything in light of our vertical relationship with God and Jesus.”
Secular critics point to the fact that there are few scientifically-based/ verifiable studies on the benefits of mindfulness. Others note that it does not get to the end product that is needed. Dr. Jason Linder, a therapist, notes that mindfulness ultimately should be about “caring for others, perceiving the way things are accurately, and getting better at feeling instead of a goal of individually feeling better.” (Psychology Today).
All of this said, there are many Christian counselors who do use mindfulness as a tool in therapy. The key is to do so in a Christ-centered way.
So, how is this done?
Focus on the Family offers several keys to keeping a Christian focus when practicing Mindfulness or meditation:
1. Focus on God-honoring thoughts;
2. Use prayer to apply mindfulness to daily living;
3. Meditate on God’s Word—and use it to renew your mind;
4. Look to Jesus, and think about true, admirable things;
5. Don’t be distracted by worry about the future;
6. Take every thought captive.
The Apostle Paul says, “Since then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God.” (Colossians 3: 1-4) (NIV).
As Christians, we should meditate on this reality. It is the new life in Christ, fully lived and experienced, that brings us peace.