Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction
What is Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR)?
Mindfulness is about developing a moment-to-moment awareness of our thoughts, feelings and bodily sensations without judging. In short, mindfulness is about being fully present in our lives rather than living in the past or the future. Research shows that the practice of mindfulness meditation can reduces stress, boost the immune system, strengthen areas in the brain that improve focus and attention skills, and help reduce anxiety and depression. The medically evidenced based MBSR program, developed by Jon Kabat-Zinn, has helped tens of thousands of people worldwide. Available classes include:
Introduction to Mindfulness
Join us for this informative introductory session on mindfulness. You will learn how developing meditation skills can help you to manage pain, promote health and wellness, and develop a more positive response to stress.
Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR)
The MBSR program is a 9-week class. It is designed to teach people how to improve the way they care for themselves and to participate fully in improving the health and quality of their lives as they work with various types of “stressors” that may be limiting the life that they would like to live. You will learn effective strategies for working with ongoing stress and chronic pain. Instruction will involve mindful meditation practices, discussion, gentle stretching and yoga appropriate for all ability levels.
MBSR Class Expectations:
Before you enroll in the 9-week MBSR course we ask that you please consider the following time commitments:
- Participants are asked for a commitment to attend all classes and a day-long retreat.
- We encourage 45-60 minutes daily meditation at least 6 days each week.
Your commitment is essential. It is the practice of mindfulness meditation that will enable you to realize its benefits. This commitment can be challenging and may require a lifestyle change. You may have to rearrange your schedule to allow time for daily practice. Once you experience the benefits of MBSR, you may find that maintaining a daily practice becomes easier and highly rewarding.
MBSR Class Student Materials:
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PDFs |
Sound Tracks Body Scan- 15 Minutes or 45 Minutes Sitting Meditation- 15 Minutes or 45 Minutes Mountain Meditation |
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Videos Chair Yoga 2 |
Mindfulness Class FAQ
MBSR for MaineHealth employees is taught by qualified professionals trained to facilitate this program. By participating in an MBSR program, you will learn how develop meditation skills to help you manage pain, promote health and wellness and develop a more positive response to stress. Here are some frequently asked questions we receive from people who are interested in participating in an MBSR program.
Yes. Watch this video on the science behind mindfulness.
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Many of the side effects of mindfulness meditation found in scientific research include decrease in psychological symptoms such as anxiety and depression as well as greater stability in physical symptoms such as blood glucose levels and blood pressure.
Mindfulness is a practice of present moment awareness. Mindfulness increases ability to see things as they arise clearly without judgment. Mindfulness facilitates both focusing and widening our attention as we become aware of ourselves and the world around us. The “goal” is to be more fully present in our lives.
There are many types of contemplative practices and we encourage exploration of practices that allow people to increase their well-being. Many other contemplative practices have a specific focus such as building concentration, one-pointed awareness, or a relationship with a higher power. If mindfulness does not match your interest you may wish to explore other forms of contemplative practices.