Mindfulness: Adaptation of Eastern Religious Philosophy into Western Secular Science for Human Wellbeing – An Analysis

Abstract

This article analyses the vital role played by the construct mindfulness in human wellbeing. The article traces the roots of mindfulness, its evolution and adaptations of eastern religious philosophy and practice in western secular science. Popular books on mindfulness associating the concept to various principles, theories, practices, tools used in clinical set up in clinical psychology, management, personality development and general wellbeing programs, and journal articles comparing the concept and practice of mindfulness in ancient eastern culture and contemporary western secular society were the basis for analysis. The analysis revealed significant similarity between the two, while unravelling the much needed adaptations to suit wider and culturally diverse population with an ultimate goal of achieving and maintaining human wellbeing.