Being Mindful About the Use of Mindfulness in Clinical Contexts

Over the last 10 years, interest in the use and investigation of mindfulness-based interventions in clinical settings has expanded greatly. This commentary addresses key questions facing clinicians and researchers in order to undertake future work with rigor and care. We consider, in particular, questions regarding the definition of mindfulness, the context within which mindfulness has evolved over time, including its origins as a spiritual practice, and requirements for clinicians and researchers to deliver and study mindfulness-based interventions competently. We offer suggestions for clinical practice and research, including the expansion of mindfulness-based interventions to increasingly diverse populations.