In traditional Buddhist contexts, mindfulness is equivalent to the psychological process of meta-awareness or metacognition. Being aware of being aware is a heightened appreciation of the processes of consciousness, including thinking, feeling, and perceiving. Thinking about thinking is an intentional focus (at a conscious level) on how we develop and maintain situational awareness. One way one can accomplish this is by employing one-sided “self-speak.”
A terrific example of meta-awareness is when a person reading a book realizes his mind is thinking something else, but his/her eyes are just gazing at the letters. Mind-wandering differs for each individual, but the simultaneous recognition is meta-awareness.
The more we engage in self-questioning; increased self-awareness, the more we know both ourselves and how we process information as individuals. Greater self-awareness, particularly of our own distinct cognition style, leads to a better understanding of the strategies we should employ to achieve our goals.
To practice metacognition, the process of thinking about one’s own thinking and learning, sit comfortably. Take two or three deep breaths with slow, long, and complete exhalations. Let go of any concerns or preoccupations. Feel or imagine the breath moving through the center of your chest – your heart for a few minutes. With each breath, awaken to what’s happening around us, with our thoughts, feelings, body sensations, and impulses–in each moment. If we drift into thought, strength is the discipline of watching us return to meta-awareness.
Please visit http://www.the-guided-meditation-site… to download the full 60 minute version for formal meditation practice.
WE&P: EZorrillaMc.