Mindfulness is not: “Buddhism”

Sure, mindfulness uses techniques developed in Buddhism. But we are very clear: it is not Buddhism.

We have taken these techniques out of their Buddhist context and adapted them to the hospital, education, and other contexts.

Within Buddhism, many practitioners appreciate the fact that these techniques can benefit more people. Some hold it against us and believe that you cannot just take something out of its context.

But the quality of awareness we practice does not belong to any particular tradition. It is universally human. Nobody has a monopoly on it.

February 2017

This text is part of a series about misunderstandings regarding mindfulness.
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