Meditation vs Mindfulness: What's the Difference?

By Alee Meditation 2 min read

Meditation and mindfulness are closely related, which is why the two words are often used as if they mean the same thing.

They overlap, but they are not identical.

Meditation is a practice period

Meditation usually refers to an intentional period of practice. Depending on the method, you may focus on the breath, a mantra, sound, sensation, compassion, movement, or open awareness.

NCCIH describes meditation as a family of practices that may involve focusing or clearing the mind using combinations of mental and physical techniques. [1]

Mindfulness is a quality of awareness

Mindfulness refers to awareness of present experience. In mindfulness meditation, attention may be placed on the breath while thoughts, feelings, and sensations are noticed as they arise. [2]

But mindfulness does not have to happen only during a formal meditation session. You can practice it while walking, eating, listening, stretching, or noticing your reaction during a stressful moment.

A simple example

If you sit for ten minutes and follow your breath, that can be meditation. If you notice your feet on the ground while waiting in line, that can be mindfulness without formal meditation.

Can meditation exist without mindfulness?

Yes. Some meditation practices emphasize mantra, visualization, devotion, concentration, or other methods rather than the specific style usually called mindfulness meditation.

Can mindfulness exist without meditation?

Yes. Informal mindfulness means bringing deliberate awareness into ordinary activities instead of setting aside a separate meditation period.

Which should a beginner start with?

Either. If you like structure, a short guided meditation can give you a clear container. If sitting still feels unnatural, begin by practicing mindfulness during something you already do.

Good beginner options

  • One minute of noticing the breath
  • A short guided meditation
  • A body scan
  • Mindful walking
  • Noticing the first few bites of a meal
  • Listening to one person without planning your response

The important part is not the label

You do not need to perfectly categorize every practice. Understanding the difference simply helps you choose tools more intentionally.

Meditation is something you practice. Mindfulness is a way of paying attention that can be practiced both in meditation and in everyday life.

Related reading

Sources

  • [1] National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) — Meditation and Mindfulness: Effectiveness and Safety. nccih.nih.gov
  • [2] American Psychological Association Dictionary of Psychology — Mindfulness Meditation. dictionary.apa.org
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