Mindfulness seems to be a blanket term to describe lots of things from breathing exercises, meditation, yoga, etc., hence some confusion and misconceptions. Unfortunately this can unwittingly lead to Mindfulness being unfairly dismissed.
So what is Mindfulness and how can it be of benefit? Mindfulness is the awareness that emerges through paying attention on purpose in the present moment without judgement. Mindfulness trains the mind to pay attention more often and in doing so what’s actually here in terms of thoughts, feelings, body sensations, attitudes and behaviours is noticed more. Through regular use of guided practices class participants learn to develop an attentive, open, curious and caring attitude, revealing habitual reactions and tendencies in everyday life. Through anchoring in the body in the present moment more choices may appear and the possibility of responding differently to life’s opportunities and challenges. Self-awareness grows and more conscious choices and action around our health and wellbeing and relationships may become more clear.
What is MBSR? MBSR (Mindfulness based stress reduction) was developed in a clinical setting by Dr Jon Kabat-Zinn in 1979 at the University of Massachusetts treating chronically ill patients. Such are the reported benefits of Mindfulness practice, that its popularity and application have grown, with research into the effects increasing exponentially in recent years. MBSR is evidence based and widely regarded as the reference standard for Mindfulness practice. While Mindfulness goes back thousands of years and can be found in many contemplative traditions and beliefs, the MBSR program is entirely secular.
A Workplace Mindfulness program is shorter than the MBSR program, providing a solid introduction to Mindfulness, covering the essential learning themes. We do not sit cross legged in the lotus position wearing exercise gear. We sit on chairs wearing our usual work clothes. Mindfulness is developed over a number of weeks during class guidance and short daily home practice. Classes are experiential, interactive and practical for one hour a week for eight consecutive weeks. Shorter six week programs are possible too. Classes can be before, during or after work.
A simple Mindfulness practice during your workday is being fully present as you take a coffee break. Aware of the heat of the cup. Noticing the smell of the coffee. Tasting the coffee. Aware of the sensations of heat as the coffee flows down your throat. Pausing for a moment, experiencing your break, re-energising yourself as you return to the next task on hand. So often we gulp back our coffee and don’t take that break. Small changes can make a big difference!
If you are curious to learn more, experience a taster session, explore running a Workplace program in your organisation then please contact me at https://couragetogrow.ie.