Mindfulness training and neural integration: differentiation of distinct streams of awareness and the cultivation of well-being

In recent years, the ancient practice of being aware of one’s sensory experience in the present moment—of “being mindful”—has taken a prominent place in discussions among clinicians, educators, and the general public (Bishop et al, 2004; Epstein, 1999; Germer et al, 2005; Kabat-Zinn, 2003). Found in most cultures throughout history and now resurfacing in modern times, in both the East and in the West, the practice of living in the present has been offered as a way to cultivate well-being in our minds, our bodies, and even in our relationships with each other (Kornfield, 2008). Science has taken note of these suggestions and a number of investigators have focused their objective lens on this form of subjective, inner focus of the mind on present experience. Evidence from these studies supports the notion that being mindful, being aware of the present moment without grasping on to judgments, does indeed improve immune function, enhance a sense of equanimity and clarity, and may even increase empathy and relational satisfaction (Davidson et al, 2003, and see Siegel, 2007, for a summary of these research studies). Why would the way we focus our attention matter for the quality of our lives? How does