Mindfulness beneficial to our frantic urban life

I can relate to the commentary “Making sense of mindfulness” (July 6), on why companies are enrolling their staff in mindfulness classes.

Urban life is frantic, with competing commitments to meet that can lead to mental disorders if the stresses are not managed properly.

Children are facing pressure to do well in their studies and have numerous enrichment activities owing to rising competition.

How many of them have the time to reflect on their daily experiences, to learn empathy and care for others, amid the pursuit of a competitive edge?

How many adults, with their heavy workload and worries about job security in an uncertain economy, have the time to reflect on what is truly important?

Sometimes I feel as if I should slow down, reflect and do what interests me, but reality does not allow that.

Maybe we could pursue our interests freely when financial independence has been achieved.