Mindfulness might sound like just another health fad touted by Hollywood stars like Gwyneth Paltrow and Orlando Bloom.

But long before the meditation technique got the attention of LA influencers, the NHS was recommending it as an evidence-based treatment for people suffering from a mental illness.

And to mark Mental Health Awareness Week, the South West London and St George's Mental Health NHS Trust is hosting a series of mindfulness-themed events.

So what is mindfulness?

According to Merton's Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG), mindfulness is about "paying attention to the present moment, without getting stuck in the past or worrying about the future."

Benefits for mental health include helping people change the way they manage and react to stressful situations.

How can you be more mindful? Merton's CCG recommends:

Go for a walk. Try to notice sounds around you and the feel of your feet on the ground.

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Give your brain a break by thinking about your body and the present moment, rather than speculating ahead about what you're about to do.

Eat a "mindful" meal. Try and slow down and taste the food in your mouth, by exploring the texture, colour and smell.

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Turn off technology. Do something that allows you to concentrate on the sensations in your body like going for a walk or taking a bath.

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Capture moments on camera. Taking photos can be a good way of reminding you to notice the small things in life.

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Take a mindfulness course. To find a course in your local area, visit bemindful.co.uk. Alternatively, the Mental Health Foundation's web-based course can be found at bemindfulonline.com.

Dr Andrew Murray, GP and clinical chair of Merton CCG, said one in four people in the UK will experience a mental health problem in their lifetime.

"Mental health problems can include low mood and depression, stress, anxiety, anger and panic attacks," he said.

"Most people who feel low will start to feel better after a few days or weeks but if these feelings persist or get in the way of everyday life then it is time to seek help.

"If you have been feeling depressed for more than a few weeks or your anxiety is affecting your daily life, make an appointment to speak to your GP."

To see the full list of mindfulness events this week, which include open days at Tolworth Hospital and Springfield University Hospital, visit: swlstg-tr.nhs.uk/news-and-media/MH-awareness-week

The Samaritans operates a service 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, for people who want to talk in confidence. Call 08457 90 90 90.