Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MSBR)

What is Mindfulness?

Jon Kabat-Zinn defines mindfulness as “the awareness that emerges through paying attention on purpose, in the present moment, and non-judgmentally to the unfolding of experience moment by moment. It’s paying attention in the here and now. Attention to the things that are happening in this very moment.

This may sound easy, but how many times is our attention redirected by our thoughts? Although thinking is undeniably very handy, as it allows us to make plans and solve difficult problems, at the same time, it often triggers many problems. Our mind can get easily lost in endless thinking (worrying and rumination).

The Goal of Mindfulness

The goal of Mindfulness interventions is to teach participants to become aware of body sensations, thoughts, and emotions and to relate to them with an open, non-judgmental attitude through formal and informal practice. Research has consistently shown that mindfulness is an important predictor of well-being. Practicing mindfulness has been associated with higher levels of life satisfaction, more positive affect, less negative affect, and sense of autonomy and competence.