Working memory capacity is a psychological characteristic that refers to an individual's ability to simultaneously hold and process multiple pieces of information in their mind. In cognitive psychology, this capacity can be quantified using systematic measurement procedures.

Working Memory Capacity

People who practice mindfulness have shown to be more attentive, such as with attentional functioning.

Mindfulness and Focus

After learning and utilizing the skill of self-observation during mindfulness practices, there is a deactivation of  pathways in the brain that were created by prior learning. In turn, this enables the incorporation of input in the present moment to be received in a new way. Additionally, mindfulness meditation can lead to a faster recovery after facing anxiety inducing stimuli. 

Mindfulness and Cognitive flexibility 

Instead of changing the thoughts in the individual's mind, mindfulness meditation aims to separate the person from the constant flow of thoughts happening in their head. As a result, the individual no longer experiences repetitive, ruminating thoughts.

Changing How the Individual Relates to their Thoughts

- Increased ability to concentrate
- Increased cognitive flexibility
- Increased focus
- Enhanced working memory capacity
- Changed relationship with one's thoughts

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- Cognitive goals and benefits
- Emotional goals and benefits
- Physical goals and benefits

Potential Goals and Benefits of Mindfulness Meditation

Fabrizio, D. (ed.). (2009). Clinical handbook of mindfulness. Springer. 

Clinical Handbook of Mindfulness

Davis, D. M., & Hayes, J. A. (2011). What are the benefits of mindfulness? A practice review of psychotherapy-related research. Psychotherapy, 48(2), 198–208. https://doi.org/10.1037/a0022062

What are the benefits of mindfulness

Cognitive Goals and Benefits of Mindfulness Meditation

- Increased sense of calmness
- Increased self-compassion
- Increased psychological well-being
- Decreased stress
- Decreased rumination
- Decreased emotional reactivity
- Decreased mental suffering
- Emotion regulation skills

Emotional Goals and Benefits of Mindfulness Meditation

- Enhanced athletic performance
- Changed relationship with physical sensations in the body

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