The term is first found in the Pali word, “sati,” which is translated as “to remember, to manifest presence of mind.” Mindfulness was first practiced by early Buddhists 2500 years ago. But that was long ago.
Over the past 30 years, researchers have variously translated the term, broadened the definition and given it measurable parameters. So now we have three meanings:
- A trait, wherein a person tends to more frequently enter in and more easily abide in mindful states;
- An outcome, being in a state of awareness, resulting from mindfulness training; and
- A practice in itself.
As a mindfulness coach, I refer to and employ all of these meanings in my work with my clients.