Mindfulness is paying attention to one's present experiences without judgment. It involves focusing on the present moment, such as the breath, without getting caught up in thoughts or emotions. Mindfulness meditation is designed to strengthen mindfulness by focusing on bodily sensations like breathing. Research shows meditation reduces stress and improves focus and emotional regulation. Emotional intelligence involves perceiving, understanding, and managing emotions. Mindfulness enhances emotional intelligence by improving awareness of feelings, understanding how schemas amplify emotions, and regulating reactions through openness and wisdom. Neuroscience suggests meditation balances brain hemispheres and increases communication between rational and emotional centers for optimal emotional functioning. Increasing mindfulness through meditation can thus increase emotional intelligence.