How mindfulness became mainstream

Mindfulness shows up everywhere now—workplaces, classrooms, therapy sessions, and guided meditation apps. But how did a practice that seems so simple—just paying attention—become a global wellness trend?

We’re exploring the history of mindfulness, how it became mainstream, and why so many people turn to it today for better focus, less stress, and improved mental health.

The history of mindfulness

Mindfulness isn’t a new invention—it’s a practice rooted in thousands of years of human experience. Its earliest structured forms appear in Buddhist and Hindu traditions, where awareness and focused attention were part of daily life and spiritual development.

But mindfulness isn’t limited to one tradition or region. Forms of intentional awareness show up globally—in Stoic philosophy, Indigenous ceremonies, Christian contemplation, Taoist reflection, and beyond. Across time and cultures, people developed different ways to tune into the present moment as a way to better understand the mind and reduce suffering.

While traditional forms often looked like sitting in silence, mindfulness also included everyday actions—like walking slowly while noticing each step, or eating a meal while fully focusing on its taste, smell, and texture.

Today, mindfulness is no longer tied to any specific belief system. It’s now widely practiced as a secular, science-backed mental skill.

When did mindfulness become popular?

The modern rise of mindfulness began in the late 20th century when researchers started studying meditation outside of religious or spiritual contexts. One of the most influential moments came in 1979, when molecular biologist Jon Kabat-Zinn developed the Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) program.

MBSR was designed to help patients with chronic pain and stress-related conditions. Kabat-Zinn removed the spiritual language, focused on attention and awareness, and framed mindfulness as a clinical tool.

In practice, that often meant simple exercises like focusing on your breath for five minutes, doing a body scan to notice physical sensations, or bringing full attention to something mundane—like washing the dishes. The idea was to build awareness, not achieve some lofty state of inner peace.

The program was a success, and it sparked decades of research showing that mindfulness can help with:

• Anxiety and depression
• Chronic pain
• Sleep quality
• Cognitive function
• Emotional regulation

These findings helped push mindfulness into schools, healthcare settings, and eventually, digital platforms.

How mindfulness became mainstream

By the early 2000s, mindfulness had moved far beyond research labs. It became part of mental health programs, educational initiatives, and even corporate wellness plans. As burnout, distraction, and anxiety levels rose globally, people started seeking practical ways to manage stress without needing to change their whole lifestyle.

Technology played a major role. Meditation apps—like the Balance app—made mindfulness available anytime, anywhere. What once required books or retreats could now be practiced in five-minute sessions guided by an expert voice.

These sessions often walk you through techniques like focusing on the rise and fall of your breath, noticing sounds around you without judgment, or labeling your emotions as they come up. They’re designed for real life—like decompressing after a meeting or falling asleep more easily.

And because modern mindfulness doesn’t require religious affiliation, belief systems, or even prior experience, it appeals to a broad audience. For many, it’s simply a way to feel better in daily life.

Not sure if you’ve practiced mindfulness before? You probably have. Ever paused to take a deep breath before replying to a frustrating message? That’s a mindful moment. So is savoring the first bite of your lunch instead of scrolling your phone. These micro-practices are the building blocks of mindfulness—and they add up.

And because modern mindfulness doesn’t require religious affiliation, belief systems, or even prior experience, it appeals to a broad audience. For many, it’s simply a way to feel better in daily life.

So what does mindfulness actually look like in practice? It’s not just sitting silently. Common approaches include:

• Mindful walking: Paying attention to how your feet hit the ground, the rhythm of your breath, and the world around you.
  
  
• Mindful eating: Slowing down during meals to notice flavors, textures, and your body's hunger cues.
  
  
• Mindful listening: Giving someone your full attention without planning what you’ll say next.
  
  
• Mindfulness meditations: Often guided sessions that bring awareness to the breath, body, or thoughts, helping you return to the present moment again and again.

These everyday practices make mindfulness approachable—even for total beginners.

Why it resonates today

Mindfulness gained traction for good reasons:

• It’s accessible. No gear, no background knowledge needed.
• It’s backed by science. Research supports its mental and physical health benefits.
• It’s customizable. You can practice it walking, sitting, or using an app.
• It’s non-disruptive. It fits into your life without requiring a big change.

Guided meditation, especially, helps lower the barrier to entry. Beginners don’t need to know where to start—a voice guides the process, helping them stay present and build confidence with each session.

Apps like Balance, for example, might guide you through noticing how your feet feel on the ground as you walk, or gently bring your focus back to your breath when your mind wanders during a stressful commute.

Where mindfulness goes from here

The practice continues to evolve. As more people seek tools for self-care, digital mindfulness platforms are becoming a first point of contact. But along with that growth comes critique—concerns about commercialization or stripping mindfulness of its deeper context.

Still, for most people using it today, mindfulness isn’t about philosophy or perfection. It’s about having a reliable way to ground themselves, reduce reactivity, and improve their well-being—no matter what’s going on around them.

In summary: The history and popularity of mindfulness

• Origins: Mindfulness practices appear in ancient Buddhist, Hindu, Stoic, Taoist, and Indigenous traditions.
  
  
• Modern introduction: In 1979, Jon Kabat-Zinn developed Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), separating mindfulness from religious framing and bringing it into clinical settings.
  
  
• Scientific validation: Studies show mindfulness reduces stress, improves focus, helps with anxiety and depression, and enhances sleep quality.
  
  
• Mainstream adoption: Mindfulness entered healthcare, education, and corporate wellness and expanded rapidly through smartphone apps.
  
  
• Why it stuck: Practical benefits, scientific credibility, and the rise of digital tools made mindfulness accessible for the average person.

FAQ: History of mindfulness & its rise in modern life

What is the origin of mindfulness?

Mindfulness practices date back thousands of years and are rooted in multiple cultural traditions, including Buddhism, Hinduism, and Stoic philosophy. These traditions emphasized present-moment awareness as a way to reduce suffering and improve mental clarity.

When did mindfulness become popular?

Mindfulness gained popularity starting in 1979 with the creation of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) by Jon Kabat-Zinn. Scientific studies throughout the 1980s and 1990s confirmed its benefits, which led to broader adoption in healthcare, education, and wellness.

Who is Jon Kabat-Zinn and what is MBSR?

Jon Kabat-Zinn is a scientist who developed MBSR, a program that uses mindfulness meditation to help people manage stress and chronic pain. It removed religious language to make the practice accessible in medical and academic settings.

Why is mindfulness so common now?

Mindfulness has gone mainstream because of its accessibility, scientific credibility, and usefulness for everyday issues like stress, anxiety, and sleep. Apps and digital tools have also made it easier for people to start and stick with the practice.

How can beginners get started with mindfulness?

The easiest way to start is with a guided meditation app like Balance. It walks you through simple mindfulness techniques without requiring any prior knowledge or experience—plus, it’s fully personalized and tailored to your feelings and skillset.

Try mindfulness in the way that works for you

You don’t need to study ancient history to benefit from mindfulness. Thanks to guided meditation apps like Balance, you can start practicing today—with no pressure and no experience required.

Whether you want to sleep better, reduce anxiety, or just take a moment for yourself, Balance offers personalized sessions that fit your needs. Try a guided session while walking, during your lunch break, or even while brushing your teeth—whatever helps you stay present.

Download the Balance app now and see how mindfulness can support your life—one session at a time.