Mindfulness can be practiced by Christians as well as buddhists

The Psalms talk about resting in Christ and taking every thought captive to Christ so it, too, is focused on our thoughts.  Cognitive psychologists have long known that our thoughts can lead to our feelings so all of this is good clinical advice whether we are talking about self- growth, relationship growth or parenting.  Mindful practice that I gravitate to is taking time to practice just being present in one’s surroundings-just noting such like I try to do when walking Rudy and Buttons.  I will never be the same after walking them at night and hearing the night sounds after walking them night after night engrossed in thoughs of the next day.  So much more pleasant listening and feeling the night air.   While many thoughts may race through the brain, the mindful person may choose to not follow them but focus on God's creation and the beauty around them which delight (or don't) the senses. This is a form of discipline best practiced when calm so that it will be available during a "crisis" such as when a family member is on  your last nerve!! Resting without grasping what seems good is how we learn to walk with God in the tough times as well as the glad times.  We need compassion for ourselves as well as compassion for others too!!