Focus
When Wandering Minds are Just Fine
While most psychologists call mind wandering a detrimental “failure of executive control," a new study suggests that it's not always harmful. Read More 
Science
Discover the empirical world of mindfulness and meditation within the Science category at Mindful.org. Our content bridges the gap between ancient practices and modern science, offering a deep dive into how mindfulness can positively affect our brains, bodies, and behavior. Explore a wealth of articles that unpack cutting-edge research, interview leading scientists, and present evidence-based benefits of mindfulness for health, work, relationships, and more.
Focus
How Do Mindfulness Apps Work?
Research on mindfulness apps is limited, but here’s what we know so far. Read More
Compassion
You Had Me at Hello
Why is it that we seem to get along with some people right off the bat? Is it just because you happen to like the same kind of music, or are there deeper reasons to find yourself on the same wavelength? Read More
Focus
The Magnificent, Mysterious, Wild, Connected and Interconnected Brain
Our brain is like a wild, raging electrical storm that wondrously enables us to make our way. Yet a lot of mindfulness literature makes it sound like a very simple machine. Two leading neuroscientists suggest better ways to think and talk about the brain and the mind. Read More
Calm
How Can We Pay Better Attention To Our Attention?
Neuroscientist Amishi Jha explains why overloading our attention can harm us, and how practicing mindfulness provides us with the space we need to find focus. Read More
Calm
Can Gratitude Help Couples Through Hard Times?
New research suggests that thanking our partners for supporting us through hardship may increase their joy and satisfaction in giving. Read More
Anxiety
When the Mind Goes Dark
When depression hits, can meditating help you work through it? Maybe, but not always. Psychologists weigh in on when mindfulness therapies can (and can’t) help to ease depression. Read More
Meditation
The Difference Between Healing and Fixing in the Practice of Mindfulness
We often hear that mindfulness doesn’t “work” when we use it as a means to an end. Here, Genevieve Tregor explains why mindfulness loses its impact when we use it in small "bandage" doses instead of weaving the practice into our daily lives. Read More
Focus
The Surprising Benefits of Teaching a Class Outside
A new study finds that a class in nature helps kids be more attentive and focused once they return indoors. Read More
Focus
The Quest to Live Forever
Some scientists are working on making the last stages of life a little healthier, others are trying to extend life, and still others are hoping to make death obsolete. Read More
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