Mindfulness is about paying attention to what is happening right now, rather than worrying about the past or the future. It is a way of living that can help you find peace and happiness in your life.

One way to practice mindfulness is to focus on your breath. Sit in a quiet place with your back straight, but relaxed. Feel your breath move in and out of your body. Let your awareness of everything else fall away. Pay attention to your nostrils as air passes in and out. Notice the way your abdomen expands and collapses with each breath.

When your mind wanders, gently redirect your attention to your breath.

Don’t judge yourself. Remember that you’re not trying to become anything — such as a good meditator. You’re simply becoming aware of what’s happening around you, breath by breath.

Another way to practice mindfulness is to pay attention to your senses.

Get a raisin. Sit in a quiet place with your back straight, but relaxed. Look at the raisin. Smell it, feel it and anticipate eating it. Taste the raisin, and slowly and deliberately chew it.

Notice the way the raisin’s taste changes, your impulse to swallow the raisin, your response to that impulse and any thoughts or emotions that arise along the way.

Paying close attention to your senses and your body’s reaction to the raisin might reveal insight into your relationship with eating and food.