Mindfulness Practices across the Globe

Rhucha Kulkarni
Sep 8
3 min read

We earlier reflected on what mindfulness is and also some mindful actions for happier living.

According to research*1, mindfulness is the practice of being fully present and aware of your current experience—without overreacting or getting lost in thoughts.

Mindfulness has evolved from ancient spiritual practice, to a cross-cultural philosophy, to a scientific, therapeutic tool. Its essence, however, remains the same...paying attention, with openness and compassion, to the present moment.

This practice of being more 'present in the moment' has taken on different forms across different cultures across the globe. Today we look at some of the prominent practices and how we can incorporate a mindfulness practice in our lives.

1. Sati (Buddhism – Southeast Asia)

What it means: The word “sati” comes from Pali, meaning “to remember” or “awareness.”

Practice: Observing thoughts, emotions, and sensations as they arise without attachment. It’s the essence of Buddhist meditation practices like Vipassana.

Mindful lesson: We are not our thoughts—we can observe them, let them pass, and stay rooted in the present.

2. Ikigai (Japan)

What it means: Roughly translated as “reason for being” or “a life worth living.”

Practice: Reflecting on what you love, what you’re good at, what the world needs, and what sustains you. The sweet spot where they intersect is your Ikigai.

Mindful lesson: Mindfulness isn’t just stillness—it’s also living intentionally and finding meaning in everyday actions.

3. Ubuntu (Southern Africa)

What it means: “I am because we are.” A philosophy from Zulu and Xhosa traditions.

Practice: Mindful awareness of interconnectedness—recognizing that one’s happiness and humanity are deeply tied to others’.

Mindful lesson: True mindfulness extends beyond the self to compassion, community, and shared humanity.

4. Pratyahara (India – Yoga Philosophy)

What it means: One of the Eight Limbs of Yoga, meaning “withdrawal of the senses.”

Practice: Closing the eyes, quieting external distractions, and moving inward. It prepares the mind for deeper meditation.

Mindful lesson: By reducing sensory overload, we become more aware of the inner self and cultivate mental clarity.

5. Wabi-Sabi (Japan)

What it means: A philosophy that embraces imperfection, impermanence, and simplicity.

Practice: Finding beauty in the old, the imperfect, or the incomplete—a cracked teacup, fading flowers, or weathered wood.

Mindful lesson: Life’s fleeting nature is not something to fear but something to cherish with presence and acceptance.

6. Hygge (Denmark)

What it means: A Danish word for coziness, comfort, and well-being.

Practice: Savoring simple pleasures—lighting candles, sharing warm food with friends, enjoying a quiet evening at home.

Mindful lesson: Mindfulness is also about slowing down and fully appreciating life’s small, nourishing moments.

7. Wu Wei (China – Taoism)

What it means: Literally “non-doing” or “effortless action.”

Practice: Flowing with the natural rhythms of life, not forcing outcomes, and allowing things to unfold organically.

Mindful lesson: Presence comes from harmony with the moment, not resistance.

These diverse traditions show that mindfulness is universal, but not uniform. Some traditions emphasize stillness and self-observation, others highlight joy, community, or flow with nature.