How much mindfulness is too much mindfulness?

Mindfulness materialism is a thing.

Photo by Adolfo Félix on Unsplash

Mindfulness is everywhere. It’s in apps, books, and daily routines. I’ve written about the value of being in the here and now. I practice it.

It helps me reset and detach from worry. I’m calmer and more aware. You may feel the same way with practice.

Mindfulness can do wonders for your physical and emotional health and even your relationships. Science backs it up. It can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. It improves focus and emotional regulation.

But is there such a thing as too much mindfulness?

Can I overdo it?

Can we focus so much on being present that we miss out on something else? What happens when we obsess over every single moment?

What if the too-much-of-a-good-thing effect applies to it? I’ve done the research. Paying attention to your thoughts and feelings without judgment has mind and body benefits. You know that already.

But when does noticing turn into fixation?

An obsession that takes over your life. What if you get so good at “observing” your anxiety that you never actually deal with it?