Mindfulness has become a billion-dollar industry. Research shows mindfulness can be an effective wellness practice, yet the effect sizes found in studies tend to be moderate. Mindfulness may be worthwhile, but only if we approach it with understanding and realistic expectations. Unless you’ve recently returned from a hermitage atop the sacred mountain, you’ve probably noticed that mindfulness has become a big deal. As measured by Google searches , interest in the East Asian tradition has risen significantly in the last two decades, and more Americans are practicing either yoga or meditation . CEOs and celebrities plug it as key to their health, success, and happiness, while companies have adopted it to bolster innovation and productivity. With that groundswell of attention has come a deluge of influencers, self-help gurus, and wellness experts—all hawking their wares and claims in hopes of slicing off a portion of a soon-to-be $9 billion industry .…