ABSTRACT
In Chapter 1 we look at three different definitions of the term “mindfulness.” Mindfulness can be explored as a state of consciousness, various types of meditation practice (including forms of Focused Attention Meditation (FAM) and Open Monitoring Meditation (OMM)), and as a cultural movement that has, in particular, been proliferating through the primary and higher education systems in America at accelerating rates for the last decade. We also introduce several experiential exercises that help the reader test their own current powers of attention, explore in a direct way the experience of mindful awareness, and begin to build a repertoire of basic meditation exercises. Additionally, we explore the growing impact that stress, anxiety, and depression are having on the emerging-adult population (college-aged students) and some of the ways an ongoing meditation practice might help.
