Mindfulness: A Simple Practice with Profound Impact
- Dr Larissa Bartlett
- Jan 28
- 3 min read
I’ve dedicated my career to exploring mindfulness and its incredible potential to transform lives—both personally and professionally. With a PhD in mindfulness and workplace mental health, I’ve studied how this simple yet powerful practice can enhance focus, reduce stress, and build resilience in individuals and teams.
Mindfulness isn’t about achieving perfection—it’s about showing up fully in the present moment, whatever that moment may hold. In a world that often feels chaotic and overwhelming, mindfulness gives us the tools to respond thoughtfully, connect deeply, and create meaningful change.
The Science of Mindfulness
At its core, mindfulness is about paying attention to the present moment with curiosity and without judgment. But its benefits go far beyond theory—they’re backed by science.
Reduces Stress: Mindfulness lowers cortisol levels, helping us stay calm under pressure.
Improves Focus: Regular practice strengthens attention, decision-making, and overall productivity.
Builds Resilience: Mindfulness rewires the brain, helping us navigate challenges with greater adaptability and clarity.
Key Stat: Employees who practice mindfulness report a 28% reduction in stress and a 20% increase in productivity (Journal of Occupational Health Psychology).
Mindfulness in the Workplace
My research focuses on integrating mindfulness into the workplace to create environments where people can truly thrive. Here’s how mindfulness can transform workplace culture:
Boosts Collaboration: Mindful teams communicate more effectively, actively listen, and work cohesively.
Improves Wellbeing: Mindfulness programs help employees manage stress, build resilience, and prevent burnout.
Increases Engagement: When employees feel calm and focused, they’re more engaged, creative, and motivated.
Key Stat: Organisations with mindfulness programs see a 40% reduction in absenteeism and improved team morale (APA).
Practical Ways to Practice Mindfulness
Mindfulness doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are some simple ways to incorporate it into your day:
Start Small
Begin with 2–5 minutes of deep breathing or observing your surroundings.
Anchor to Daily Habits
Pair mindfulness with routine activities like brushing your teeth, making coffee, or walking.
Gratitude Pause
Take a moment each day to reflect on three things you’re grateful for.
Mindful Meetings
Start team meetings with a brief mindful pause to help everyone focus and reset.
Use Apps and Tools
Apps like Headspace or Calm offer guided meditations and mindfulness reminders to make practice easy and accessible.
Here’s a few tasters of my work: Mindfulness - Hospohealth
The Mind Games: Game Changers and Mindfulness
I’m thrilled to be part of The Mind Games Game Changers Program, an exciting new initiative aimed at transforming workplace wellbeing through innovation and evidence-based practices.
As one of the Game Changers, I’m bringing mindfulness to the forefront of workplace culture. Through programs like The Mind Games Race for Research and interactive mindfulness challenges, I’ve seen how being present can enhance collaboration, creativity, and connection in teams.
Key Stat: Teams that incorporate mindfulness report a 15% increase in problem-solving efficiency (Harvard Business Review).
Why Mindfulness Matters
Mindfulness isn’t just a skill—it’s a way of being that helps us navigate life’s uncertainties with greater ease and compassion. In the workplace, it creates space for people to show up as their best selves, fostering connection and resilience.
I’ve witnessed countless transformations, both in my research and through initiatives like The Mind Games. Mindfulness has the power to turn challenges into opportunities and build teams that thrive together.
Closing Thoughts
If you’re curious about mindfulness, start small. Take a few moments today to pause, breathe, and notice what’s happening around you. It’s in these simple practices that the real magic happens.
Let’s bring mindfulness into your workplace and see what’s possible together.
Contact me to learn more about mindfulness programs and The Mind Games’ Game Changers initiative.
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