There are three types of mindfulness:
- Mindfulness of the body
- Mindfulness of the mind
- Mindfulness of mindfulness
Mindfulness is a matter of alertness. Alertness is a part of the mind that stands back and observes, and can see things in perspective. Alertness checks what the mind is doing and asks "Is there is anything better I could be doing at the present moment?", and "Is this activity advancing me towards my goal?" Alertness keeps us at a safe distance from the stickiness of the world. Lose your alertness, become absorbed in things, and you will be at their mercy.
Whatever has been learnt
By those whose minds lack alertness
Just like water in a leaking vase
It will not be retained in their memory.