Have you ever driven home and realized you barely remember the route? Or opened a book and noticed your mind was somewhere else entirely, replaying a conversation, planning tomorrow, or worrying about something that has not happened yet? These moments of “checking out” are very human. They are also a sign that your mind and body may be moving through the day on autopilot. Mindfulness is the practice of gently returning to the present moment. It does not mean forcing your mind to be blank or becoming calm on command. Instead, mindfulness invites you to notice your thoughts, emotions, body sensations, and...