Mindfulness is the simple yet powerful practice of training our attention.

It’s simple because it’s just about paying attention to what’s happening here and now. Notice your own sensations, thoughts and emotions.

Just notice them – don’t judge them.

It’s so powerful because it breaks the habit of getting lost in thoughts and worries about both the past and the future, which most commonly lead us into stressful thinking.

Mindfulness is increasingly recognised as an effective cure for healing stress and provides a higher sense of wellness and relaxation.

‘Mindfulness is the practice of being fully present and alive, body and mind united. Mindfulness is the energy that helps us to know what is going on in the present moment. I drink water and I know that I am drinking the water. Drinking the water is what is happening.

Mindfulness brings concentration. When we drink water mindfully, we concentrate on drinking. If we are concentrated, life is deep, and we have more joy and stability. We can drive mindfully, we can cut carrots mindfully, we can shower mindfully. When we do things this way, concentration grows. When concentration grows, we gain insight into our lives’ Thich Nhat Hanh

‘Mindfulness is awareness, cultivated by paying attention in a sustained and particular way: on purpose, in the present moment, and nonjudgmentally. It is one of many forms of meditation,
if you think of meditation as any way in which we engage in (1) systematically regulating our attention and energy, (2) thereby influencing and possibly transforming the quality of our experience (3) in the service of realizing the full range of our humanity and of (4) our relationships to others and the world.’

Jon Kabat-Zinn

Over the past 30 years, there has been a wealth of research concluding mindfulness is fundamentally associated with improvement in key areas such as wellbeing, relationships and performance.

Experts at Harvard University have found that people who practice mindfulness meditation show changes in brain regions which control learning and memory processes, the ability to regulate emotions and to respond to different situations by taking different perspectives.

According in fact to Richard J. Davidson, renowned psychologist and chair of the Center for Heathy Minds, mental activity, in particular meditation, mindfulness and cognitive-behaviour therapy, can alter brain functions with the result that you develop a broader awareness of social signals, a deeper sensitivity to your feelings and bodily sensations and a more consistently positive outlook.

In the travel industry, we’re starting to see an increased interest in mindfulness and the benefits it can offer to businesses, employees and customers.

Many airlines, including Virgin Atlantic, British Airways, Delta and Cathay Pacific have started promoting meditation and mindfulness by introducing an audio channel on long-haul flights devoted to meditation practices.

As mental wellbeing and self-care are becoming more and more important, hotels as well are finding ways to make their guests’ stays more mindful.

From new Mindful boutique hotels such as Inhabitat, boasting meditation pods, to larger hotel chains like Novotel which has teamed up with famous Meditation app Calm, hotels are now prioritising their guests’ wellbeing, adding even more value to their offerings.

Incorporating mindfulness and meditation into your travels can contribute not only to a more fulfilling and enjoyable experience, but it also allows you to fully appreciate each moment of your journey and to deeply transform the way you relate to the world outside, bringing more joy, compassion and equanimity.

1. Reduced Stress and Anxiety:
   • Traveling can be stressful, with various uncertainties, delays, and unfamiliar environments. Mindfulness and meditation techniques help in managing stress and anxiety by encouraging a calm and centred state of mind.
2. Improved Patience:
   • Travel often involves waiting, whether it's at airports, train stations, or during long journeys. Meditation can enhance your patience by teaching you to accept the present moment without judgment, making delays and inconveniences more manageable.
3. Better Sleep:
   • Jet lag and changes in time zones can disrupt your sleep patterns. Mindfulness meditation can improve sleep quality by promoting relaxation and helping you adjust to new environments.
4. Increased Awareness:
   • Being mindful allows you to fully engage with your surroundings. Whether you're exploring a new city or enjoying nature, paying attention to the sights, sounds, and smells can make the experience richer and more memorable.
5. Enhanced Appreciation:
   • Mindfulness encourages gratitude and appreciation for the experiences you encounter during your travels. This can lead to a more positive outlook and a deeper connection to the places you visit.
6. Coping with Unexpected Challenges:
   • Travel often involves unexpected challenges. Mindfulness equips you with the tools to handle these challenges with a calm and composed mind, fostering resilience and adaptability.
7. Cultivation of Mindful Eating:
   • Traveling usually involves trying different foods. Mindful eating, a component of mindfulness, involves savouring each bite, paying attention to flavours and textures. This not only enhances your dining experience but also promotes healthy eating habits.
8. Connection with Locals:
   • Being present in the moment allows you to engage more fully with the people you encounter. Whether it's fellow travellers or locals, mindfulness can improve your social interactions and create more meaningful connections.
9. Mindful Movement:
   • Incorporating mindfulness into physical activities, such as walking or yoga, can enhance your overall travel experience. It promotes a mind-body connection and can be particularly beneficial for maintaining your well-being during long journeys.