Why Gen Z Is Turning to Mindfulness (and What We Can Learn from Them)


In a world that’s louder, faster, and more demanding than ever, Generation Z — those born roughly between 1997 and 2012 — are leading a quiet revolution. While previous generations may have turned to hustle culture or numbed out with distractions, Gen Z is pausing, breathing, and tuning inward. And whether you’re 15 or 55, there’s a lot we can learn from their approach to mindfulness.

1. They’re Breaking the Stigma Around Mental Health

For Gen Z, talking about anxiety, burnout, or therapy is not taboo — it’s normal. They’re rejecting the idea that struggling makes you weak. Instead, they’re open about their mental health journeys, often sharing them online in a raw, authentic way. Mindfulness is a natural extension of that honesty: it’s about meeting yourself where you are, without judgement.

Helpful Resources:

2. Mindfulness Is Their Protest

Gen Z grew up online. They know better than anyone the toll constant notifications, curated feeds, and doomscrolling can take. Their turn to mindfulness is often a protest against digital overwhelm. From journaling apps to digital detoxes, they’re seeking ways to be more present — and reclaim control over their attention.

Try a Digital Detox:

3. They Redefine What Mindfulness Looks Like

For this generation, mindfulness isn’t just sitting in silence or meditating on a cushion. It’s listening to music with full presence, doing skincare as a grounding ritual, walking without headphones, or being fully engaged in a conversation. They’re expanding mindfulness into lifestyle — not just practice.

Mindfulness Lifestyle Resources:

4. Offline Communities Are Back

In an age of hyperconnectivity, Gen Z is craving real-life connection. Mindful book clubs, walking groups, breathwork sessions, and sound baths are becoming safe spaces for healing and reflection. There’s power in coming together — without the filters and pressure of online life.

Join a Mindfulness Community:

5. What We Can Learn from Them

  • Be intentional with your time and attention. Just because your phone is ringing doesn’t mean you have to answer.
  • Slow down. Productivity is not the only measure of worth. Rest, play, and reflection matter.
  • Make mindfulness your own. It doesn't have to look like meditation — it can be colouring, baking, or even mindful cleaning.
  • Speak about mental health with courage. You never know who needs to hear, “Me too.”

6. My Take

As someone who grew up in a different world — one that didn't speak openly about mental health — I’m both inspired and humbled by Gen Z’s courage to slow down and feel. It reminds me that mindfulness isn’t age-specific. It’s human-specific. And no matter when we begin, it’s always the right time to come home to ourselves.

Take-Home Tips:

  • Try one “offline” moment each day — a walk, tea break, or silent pause
  • Swap scrolling for journaling for just 5 minutes
  • Choose one ritual this week to do mindfully (brushing your teeth, eating, making your bed)
  • Share one honest thought or feeling with someone you trust

Are you practicing mindfulness? How do you make it a part of your day? Share your thoughts in the comments or reach out through my social media channels. Let's continue this conversation!

Image credit: Unsplash - Jared Rice 

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