What is MBSR? MBSR is an 8-week program based on the practice of mindfulness.The key to mindfulness is a non-judgmental awareness that enables you to respond with greater clarity, stability and understanding to life’s stressors, rather than reacting in unhealthy ways. Jon Kabat-Zinn, Ph.D. pioneered MBSR at the University of Massachusetts Medical Center in 1979, and this program is highly respected in the medical community, with classes in over 720 medical centers, hospitals, and clinics around the world. The program consists of eight weekly two and 1/2 hour classes, and a one-day retreat (on a weekend) between sessions six and seven.
Participants who complete the course have the potential to enhance their ability to relax, focus, concentrate, improve performance, reduce anger, cope with chronic pain, live in the moment, find balance, clarity, and stability, access inner resources of strength and wisdom, and tolerate stress.
This highly participatory, supportive, and structured program includes guided instruction in mindful meditation practices, gentle stretching and mindful yoga, group dialogue, and mindful communication exercises. We ask all participants to practice approximately 45 minutes daily throughout the program. We know we are asking alot! Guided meditations and workbook will be provided.
Individuals most likely to benefit from the program include those undergoing stress (work, school, family, or financial stress), grief, uncertainty about the future, medical conditions (chronic pain, cardiovascular problems, fibromyalgia, cancer, GI distress, autoimmune disorders), psychological conditions (anxiety & panic, depression, fatigue, sleep disturbances), and prevention and wellness (learning how to take better care of yourself, increasing your creativity).