Mindfulness
Mindfulness has been defined as ‘the awareness that arises when paying attention, on purpose, in the present moment, non-judgmentally to things as they are'(Kabat-Zinn, 2013).
Mindfulness practices both formal and informal, teach us to direct our attention as best we can, to what is happening right here, right now, with an attitude of kindness towards ourselves and our experience. This focus on the present helps us to step out of automatic pilot and brings us greater insight into our mind states, our emotions and our habitual responses. This can be particularly helpful in times of stress. The capacity to be present is innate to each one of us and can often be seen naturally in young children. Although we are often unaware of what is going on in our minds at any given moment, it can have a significant influence on our behaviour and how we live our lives, as well our mental and emotional health.
What Mindfulness is not?
Mindfulness is not about learning relaxation techniques, though sometimes the practices may result in feelings of relaxation. As we begin to become more aware, we sometimes to see our lives, our behaviours and relationships more clearly and this is not always easy. An attitude of kindness, curiosity, compassion and patience towards ourselves are essential when practising mindfulness.
Mindfulness is not about learning to control our thoughts or learning to stop ourselves thinking in certain ways. It’s not about learning to think more positively or about getting rid of unwanted feelings. It’s about gradually learning to allow whatever we are feeling to be there, as best we can, again with an attitude of kindness, curiosity, self-compassion and patience. This allowing can lead us to make wiser choices and take wiser courses of action in life.
Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Course (MBSR)
This eight week course was developed by Jon Kabat-Zinn over 30 years ago in the Stress Reduction Clinic at the University of Massachusetts Medical Centre, US. It is considered the gold standard in mindfulness training.
Mindfulness training is associated with significant health and well being benefits. This intensive 8 week programme provides a practical experiential introduction to a range of mindfulness practices. No prior mindfulness experience is required. It is suitable for anyone who is interested in incorporating mindfulness practices into their life to help to manage everyday stress and anxiety.