Meditation and Mindfulness Vocabulary Quiz
12 multiple-choice questions on mindfulness and wellness vocabulary: awareness, breathwork, mantra, grounding, body scan, compassion, MBSR and the present moment. B1–B2 level.
This quiz focuses on how the target vocabulary for Meditation and Mindfulness is actually used in context at B1–B2 level, rather than testing bare definitions. Correct answers you will need to identify include terms such as mindfulness, mantra, scan, grounding and breathwork, each embedded in a full example sentence so you have to judge meaning from context, not just recognise an isolated word.
Working through all 12 questions and checking the explanations in the FAQ below is a quick way to spot any terms you are still unsure of. Revisiting the quiz again after a day or two, rather than only once, is one of the most reliable ways to move new vocabulary from passive recognition into words you can use confidently yourself in speaking and writing.
Keep building your mindfulness vocabulary.
Meditation & Mindfulness Vocabulary — FAQ
What is 'mindfulness'?
Mindfulness is the practice of paying deliberate, non-judgmental attention to the present moment, including thoughts, feelings, bodily sensations and surroundings. Jon Kabat-Zinn introduced it to mainstream healthcare through MBSR. Regular practice is associated with reduced stress, improved focus and greater wellbeing.
What is a 'mantra' in meditation?
A mantra is a word, sound or phrase repeated silently or aloud during meditation to focus the mind. In Eastern traditions, mantras are considered sacred. In secular practice, a simple phrase such as 'breathing in, I am calm' can be used. Repetition prevents the mind from wandering.
What is a 'body scan' in mindfulness?
A body scan is a guided meditation where you move attention systematically through different body parts, noticing sensations, tension or discomfort without trying to change them. It develops non-reactive awareness of your physical state and is commonly used in MBSR and MBCT.
What does 'grounding' mean in wellness?
Grounding refers to techniques that bring awareness back to the present moment when you feel anxious or overwhelmed. Common methods include the 5-4-3-2-1 sensory technique, deep breathing, holding a cold object or focusing on the physical sensation of your feet on the ground.
What is 'breathwork'?
Breathwork is any intentional breathing practice used to improve physical or mental wellbeing, from slow diaphragmatic breathing to the 4-7-8 technique. Controlled breathing activates the parasympathetic nervous system, reducing stress, lowering heart rate and improving emotional regulation.
What is 'MBSR'?
MBSR stands for Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction, an eight-week programme developed by Jon Kabat-Zinn in 1979. It combines mindfulness meditation, body scanning and yoga. It is used in healthcare to help manage chronic pain, stress, anxiety and depression.
What is 'compassion' in mindfulness practice?
Compassion is the wish that others (and oneself) be free from suffering, combined with a motivation to act. Loving-kindness meditation (metta) cultivates compassion by directing goodwill first towards yourself, then to others. Self-compassion extends this kindness to yourself in moments of failure.
What does 'non-judgmental' mean in mindfulness?
Non-judgmental awareness means observing thoughts, feelings and sensations without labelling them good or bad. Instead of fighting unwanted thoughts or clinging to pleasant ones, you simply notice and let them pass, like clouds moving across the sky.
What is 'loving-kindness meditation'?
Loving-kindness meditation (metta) cultivates feelings of warmth and goodwill by silently repeating phrases such as 'May I be happy. May I be well. May I be safe.' and gradually extending these wishes to others. Research links it to increased positive emotions, empathy and social connection.
What does 'present moment' mean in mindfulness?
The present moment refers to direct experience of what is happening right now — breath, sensations, sounds, thoughts — rather than ruminating about the past or worrying about the future. Returning attention to the present moment repeatedly cultivates peace and clarity.