Harvard University
Although the practices of mindfulness and meditation are thousands of years old, research on their health benefits is relatively new, but promising.
Being in the moment
Learning to focus your attention on the present moment can have a wide variety of benefits.
Learn more from Harvard's Center for Wellness and Health PromotionMindfulness is the simple process of noticing new things about the familiar. When we notice actively, we become sensitive to perspective and change.”
Ellen Langer, professor of psychology
Mindfulness and meditation may help:
Reduce stress
Those who learn the techniques of mindfulness and meditation often say they feel less stress. Learn more about how it works.
Ease depression
Researchers are studying how mindfulness may help those with depression. Explore the research.
Improve well-being
Mindfulness can help people become more self-aware and improve general well-being. Listen and read to learn more.
Mindfulness can help us recognize that some fear reactions are disproportional to the threat, and thus reduces the fear response …”
Sara Lazar, MGH Psychiatric Neuroimaging Research Program
Mindful moment
Get comfortable and try this mindfulness exercise.
-
1. Sit
Sit on a straight-backed chair or comfortably on the floor.
-
2. Focus
Focus on your breath and pay attention to things such as the sensations of air flowing into your nostrils and out of your mouth, or your belly rising and falling as you inhale and exhale.
-
3. Expand
Once you’ve narrowed your concentration in this way, begin to widen your focus. Become aware of sounds, sensations, and ideas.
-
4. Embrace
Embrace and consider each thought or sensation without judging it good or bad. If your mind starts to race, return your focus to your breathing. Then expand your awareness again.
Calm your mind
Harvard’s Center for Wellness and Health Promotion offers a number of pre-recorded mediations for anyone to explore.
Quiet Harvard spaces
There are several quiet, restful places on and near campus that are conducive to contemplation and reflection.
Due to pandemic restrictions, some spaces may currently be closed.
More to muse
