Mindfulness means paying full attention to what's happening right now, in this present moment, without letting your mind wander to worries about tomorrow or regrets about yesterday. When you're mindful, you notice what you're actually experiencing: the taste of your lunch, the feeling of grass under your feet, the sound of rain on the window.

Think about the difference between eating a cookie while watching TV versus really tasting that cookie, noticing its texture, its sweetness, and how it feels in your mouth. The second way is mindful eating. Or imagine walking to school while your brain races with thoughts about an upcoming test, versus actually noticing the trees you pass, the temperature of the air, and the rhythm of your steps. That focused awareness is mindfulness.

Many people practice mindfulness through meditation, sitting quietly and focusing on their breathing. But you can be mindful anytime: while brushing your teeth, petting your dog, or listening to a friend tell a story. Athletes use mindfulness to stay focused during competition. Students practice it to concentrate better during tests.

The opposite of mindfulness is going through your day on autopilot, barely noticing what you're doing because your mind is somewhere else entirely. Mindfulness means choosing to be fully present in your own life as you're actually living it.