Mindfulness

Mindfulness is a term widely used to describe living in the present moment, rather than allowing the mind to recall past experiences or anticipate the future. Mindfulness is the ability to observe feelings and emotions without labeling or criticizing them.

Ironically, mindfulness has become such a buzz term that the concept has lost much of its intended meaning: using present-minded meditation to attain lifetime personal growth and success. Similar to words like organic and eco, mindfulness has become a household term promoted as the quick-fix, shortcut cure for whatever ails you. 

While mindfulness has traditionally been synonymous with the concept of applying awareness, it has also been used to help illustrate the opposite meaning. Colloquially, the word “blind” is commonly used to describe a lack of awareness.

In my experience of living with blindness, blind people and those with disabilities of all kinds, possess the highest-level state of centered awareness, of mindfulness. Living with a disability necessitates a present-minded consciousness that is primary to survival in a world that is tailored to able-bodied people. 

We don’t use the word “blind” to describe a lack of these qualities; we use Blindfulness™ to describe an amazing, high-level sense of centered, present awareness that is practiced by people with disabilities.

Consider how deliberate and focused someone with a disability navigating the world must be—whether we are in a wheelchair, are an amputee, have hearing or vision loss, or other physical or mental disabilities. For the population of persons with disabilities, the hurdles we face daily are prodigious. 

Every aspect of life requires focus and attention. Each step, touch, task and roll require present blindfulness because our lives depend on it. 

Blindfulness™ Defined

We don’t use the word “blind” to describe a lack of these qualities; we use Blindfulness™ to describe the amazing, high-level sense of centered, present awareness that is practiced by people with disabilities.

Consider how deliberate and focused someone with a disability navigating the world must be—whether we are in a wheelchair, are an amputee, have hearing or vision loss, or other physical or mental disabilities. For the population of persons with disabilities, the hurdles we face daily are immense. 

Every aspect of life requires focus and attention. Each step, touch, task and roll require present blindfulness because our lives depend on it.