Mindfulness-based Stress Reduction (MBSR) 8 Week Programme

Developed by Jon Kabat-Zinn and his colleagues at the University of Massachusetts Medical Centre, MBSR is based on the practice of mindfulness meditation.

Nearly three decades of scientific research all over the world suggest that training in mindfulness and MBSR can positively and may profoundly affect participants’ ability to reduce medical symptoms and psychological distress while learning to live life more fully.

MBSR encourages the development of practices enabling us to respond to stressful experiences in skillful ways by stepping out of automatic reactivity.

The programme consists of eight weekly two-hour evening classes and a one-day silent retreat (on a weekend) between session six and seven.

Content of the MBSR eight session programme

MBSR participants can expect to experience:

• Guided instruction in mindfulness meditation practices.
• Gentle streching and mindful yoga.
• Group dialogue and mindful communication exercises to enhance awareness in everyday life.
• Individually tailored instruction.
• Daily home assignments.
• Guided meditations on CD and workbooks.

With focus on developing…

• Recognition of the present moment
• The breath as a place to come back to in moments of stress
• Mindfulness practice
• Understanding of stress physiology
• The ability to recognize automatic mind and body reactivity to stress
• Awareness of the link between stress and thoughts
• Interpersonal mindfulness and mindful communication
• Applying mindfulness to our daily lives
• Mindfulness a part of your life

Who will benefit?

The MBSR Programme has benefited thousands of people around the world who report a variety of conditions and concerns including:

• Stress Related Life Issues – Work, school, family, financial, illness, ageing, grief, uncertainty about the future and feeling ’out of control’.
• Medical conditions – Chronic illness, chronic pain, high blood pressure, cancer, diabetes, coronary heart disease, asthma, skin disorders and many other conditions
• Psychological distress – Anxiety, trauma, depression, fatigue and sleep disturbances
• Prevention and Wellbeing – Enhancement of health and wellbeing that encourages a deeper sense of equanimity in ourselves and our relationships.

This programme is challenging and life-affirming. Participating in MBSR requires an ongoing commitment to yourself.

Bookings and further information