
KINDNESS + MINDFULNESS = KINDFULNESS
KIND + MINDFUL = KINDFUL
“Kindfulness” is the combination of the words “kindness” and “mindfulness.” It refers to the practice of cultivating both kindness and mindfulness in one’s thoughts, words, and actions.
Kindness involves being compassionate, empathetic, and understanding towards oneself and others. It means treating ourselves and others with care, respect, and positivity.
Mindfulness, on the other hand, involves being present and aware of our thoughts, feelings, and surroundings without judgment or distraction. It means paying attention to the present moment and acknowledging what is happening within us and around us.
Together, kindfulness means being aware and intentional about being kind to oneself and others, and cultivating an open and non-judgmental awareness of the present moment. It is a powerful tool for developing self-compassion, reducing stress, and building positive relationships and mental wellbeing.
The origin of the term “kindfulness” is not attributed to a specific person or organization. It has emerged as a natural evolution of the mindfulness movement, with many mindfulness teachers and practitioners adopting the term to emphasize the importance of cultivating kindness and compassion along with mindfulness in their practice. The term was made popular first by the works of the British-born Buddhist monk Ajahn Brahm, and since then has been used by various teachers, researchers and authors in recent years, including Kristin Neff, Christopher Germer and Shamash Alidina among others.