Several of the basic mindfulness techniques are hypothesized to reduce emotional reactivity: mindful listening (i.e., listening attentively in a non-reactive and non-judgemental way); acknowledging and labeling emotional states in a non-personal way, in order to avoid being
swept up in a negative emotional cycle («there is anger»); noting
feelings as passing mental events; viewing partner's
angry statements as «just words» rather than facts; and having the intention to act compassionately towards one's partner, even while
angry.