Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR)
Responding to Stress
Who’s Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR)for?
The negative effects of chronic stress lie all around us, as we try to reduced stress and escape using the internet, social media, food, drink, shopping, overworking, etc. This Stress Reduction programme is suitable for anyone who wishes to learn how to respond to stress in a healthier way, with more ease. MBSR explores the mind, stress and anxiety in our personal and our working lives and in caring for others.
“MBSR is a scientifically researched way to change our relationship to stress using mind and body awareness, to participate in our own self-care, and to contribute wholeheartedly to our own growth and development as human beings.”
The Stress Reduction programme welcomes those with no prior mindfulness experience as well as those with experience. In fact, some like to re-immerse themselves in an MBSR programme regularly. However, it may not be supportive to undertake the course in the midst of a life crisis.
Background to MBSR
The Stress Reduction Clinic programme was initially developed by Dr Jon Kabat- Zinn in 1979 at the University Hospital Massachusetts Medical Centre, USA, to support people with stress, chronic pain and illness. The programme has been widely investigated (particularly in relation to stress and anxiety reduction) with an abundance of research, literature and science demonstrating its effectiveness. It remains the gold standard of mindfulness programmes.
Format- What’s the MBSR course like?
8 weekly (2.5-hour) sessions and a half-day of practice to integrate learning. MBSR focusses on acquiring and building on awareness during the weekly sessions and with home practice. You are supported to learn through mindfulness meditation, simple and gentle body movement, and group discussion of experience to begin to integrate this awareness into the challenges and adventures of everyday life. Commitment to 30-40 minutes of home practice daily (formal guided meditation and informal practices) for the 8 weeks is requested.