Mindfulness at the Mind–Body Interface

The concept and practice of mindfulness can enrich the biofeedback process in several ways: interpersonally, intrapersonally, and in the ‘‘triad’’ relationship that includes two people plus the ongoing biofeedback data display. Improving the relationship between clients and their somatic changes underlying the biofeedback data— including sensations, emotions, and the ever-fluctuating self-image—seems central, and benefits from mindfulness are apparent—specifically, the act of pulling back and accepting instead of striving for change. Even the familiar ‘‘body scan’’ promotes a detached observing attitude, with transient benefits similar to a more formal mindfulness focus. Knowing the related brain-processing correlates of meditation can enhance confidence in the process, and a prime element of modern mindfulness training—compassion—can be extended toward one’s own bodily processes being revealed during biofeedback.