Mission Statement

A STATEMENT OF MISSION AND PURPOSE 

Mindful Hawaii works to grow the practice of mindful living and action in the islands. We encourage people to practice mindfulness in their lives and work; offer resources and a community of support for those with an interest in mindfulness; and explore how mindfulness can create positive change in organizations and institutions.

What is “mindfulness”?

 

We use the term “mindfulness” to refer to a set of practices, including:

  • Being fully engaged – being fully present, aware of what we are doing as we are doing it, and attentive to each
  • Maintaining a beginner’s mind – withholding judgment and staying open to possibilities; considering the views of others; recognizing that what we “know” can prevent us from see- ing things as they
  • Embracing the intuitive – embracing ways of knowing beyond the intellect, seeking that which resonates in the na`au or “gut.”
  • Avoiding unhealthy attachments –not straining or forcing a result; striving not to be at- tached to future outcomes or past experiences in ways that cloud our thoughts and actions today.
  • Acknowledging interconnection – cultivating an ability to see and consider the intercon- nectedness of all people and things; and to see how events and circumstances that affect one affects

Why mindfulness?

 

We believe that being more mindful can expand our capacity for peace and joy; help us re- spond wisely and lovingly to people around us; and enable positive change in ourselves, our communities, and our institutions. A growing body of research in fields such as psychology, neuroscience, economics, and management supports the assertion that practicing mindfulness can enhance health and vitality (physical and emotional), promote healing, and help people reach their full potential.

Why Hawaii?

 

Hawaii is a natural home for mindful living – offering a close connection to the natural environment, a strong sense of community, and an indigenous culture that emphasizes concepts like aloha, kuleana, and pono. Aloha in particular is central to building strong island communities. Furthermore, the cultural diversity of modern Hawaii means that the islands are rich in spiritual traditions, practices, and points of view, offering numerous paths to the practice of mindfulness.

Who is Mindful Hawaii?

 

Mindful Hawaii was launched by a group of volunteers in 2013. Initially, the group convened to explore the topic of community-building, but many of them soon discovered a shared interest in the potential of mindfulness to produce positive community outcomes. The group meets monthly to chart their common ground and to move toward the community initiative, Mindful Hawaii, in 2014.

What does Mindful Hawaii do?

 

The work of Mindful Hawaii falls into three categories:

I. BE A RESOURCE TO THE COMMUNITY ON THINGS RELATED TO MINDFUL LIVING:

  • We keep abreast of the scientific research on mindfulness – in fields like medicine, psychology, and we digest and share this information with the public.
  • We keep abreast of the latest thinking among leaders in mindful practice, local and global – and we digest and share this information
  • We publish stories and other content – in online, print, and multi-media forms – to share information and inspiration about mindfulness with our communities in Hawaii.
  • We organize, support, and/or participate in events – celebrations, lectures, film screenings, or conferences – that expose individuals to the concepts and practices of mindfulness.

II. PROVIDE A COMMUNITY OF SUPPORT FOR THOSE SEEKING TO BE MORE MINDFUL:

  • We organize regular gatherings where people can learn, share, and deepen the practice of mindfulness. These gatherings serve to build community, and provide a consistent source of information and inspiration.
  • We offer workshops, lectures, discussion groups and other educational opportunities for practitioners to help them refine and deepen their practice.

III. EXPLORE THE ROLE OF MINDFULNESS IN TRANSFORMING COMMUNITIES AND INSTITUTIONS:

  • We engage organizations, industries, or professional associations to explore how mindfulness can transform their work and the institutions in which they operate. For example:
    • EDUCATION –We explore how an ethic of mindfulness can change schools (as it has at Waikiki Elementary School and Punahou School) and enhance the collective work of teachers, students, and parents
    • BUSINESS – We explore how mindfulness can contribute to effective leadership and management, how it can enhance corporate culture and results
    • JUSTICE – We explore how mindfulness can reduce recidivism among ex-offenders, contribute to positive life outcomes for incarcerated individuals, and enhance the legal profession
    • HEALTH – We explore how mindfulness might support integrative approaches to improved health, including both physical and mental health, traditional and alternative medicine, diet, lifestyle, and other
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