A critical aspect in mindfulness is the capacity to bring awareness to the present moment experience. However it is not just being aware cognitively of what one is experiencing but what is crucial is the capacity to have an embodied presence. To experience what is happening through one’s body to fully appreciate what is present. Too often we touch into what is happening and then quickly move on to the next hit. That is understandable when we are engaged in conversation or a task. However when there is the time it is important to practice mindfulness by allowing oneself to turn towards the experience with acceptance, openness and engagement.
When one senses a sensation it is important to then sustain the awareness of what is being experienced. As one sustains awareness what quickly becomes apparent is the the sensation will change and become less intense. This is very important in recognizing that strong negative emotions such as anger and fear are not fixed and permanent. One needs to surrender to the sensation without resistance. It is valuable to follow the sensation until it dissolves into stillness.
In following this sequence one is able to live life more fully by bringing each moment alive. There is also the capacity for a meditative observation of the impermanence of experience and critically the sense of self that dissolves and in the next instant comes into life similar but different. This supports non-attachment to the sense of self that is the segue to freedom!
by Dr. Phil Blustein
December 5, 2025