Mindfulness is a buzz word these days and many counsellors are teaching it. So, what is it really? In a nutshell, mindfulness is the art of focussing in on the present moment. When you focus on the present moment, you cannot also be worrying about the future or obsessing about the past. The present moment is all we really have, and it is a gateway into a richer and more authentic experience of life. Studies show that it increases happiness and decreases stress. It starts with the breath, paying attention, accepting and being compassionate towards yourself.