Answer this question to the best of your ability:
Can you elaborate on how mindfulness ties into the practice of meditation?
Mindfulness is a key component in various forms of meditation practices. It refers to the state of being present, aware and non-judgmentally accepting of your thoughts, feelings and bodily sensations as they occur in the moment. When you meditate, one of the main goals is to cultivate mindfulness by focusing your attention on a specific object, such as your breath, a mantra or a visualization, and maintaining that focus without getting distracted or caught up in thoughts.

In other words, mindfulness is the awareness piece, while meditation provides the container for developing this awareness. Through regular meditation practice, one can train the mind to become more focused, calm and equanimous, which can then be applied to everyday life situations. This is why mindfulness is often described as "meditation in action".

Here's a step-by-step guide on how to cultivate mindfulness through meditation:

1. Choose a comfortable seated position with your back straight and your hands resting on your knees or in your lap.
2. Take a few deep breaths to help you relax and settle into the present moment.
3. Bring your attention to your breath as it flows in and out of your body. Notice the sensation of the air moving through your nostrils, the rise and fall of your chest and abdomen.
4. As you focus on your breath, inevitably your mind will wander to thoughts or plans for the future, memories from the past or distractions from your surroundings. When this happens, gently acknowledge the thought without judgment and then return your attention to your breath.
5. Continue practicing this process of focusing and returning to your breath for the duration of your meditation session. With time and practice, you'll find it easier to maintain your focus and become more mindful both during and after your meditation practice.