Mindfulness

How it can support us with stress and anxiety

Jon Kabat-Zinn defines mindfulness as the practice of paying attention on purpose, in the present moment, and without judgment. It's about being fully aware of your thoughts, emotions, and sensations as they arise, without trying to change them or react. Mindfulness invites us to observe experiences as they are, with curiosity and acceptance, rather than getting caught up in them.

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When it comes to stress and anxiety, mindfulness helps by creating space between you and your reactions. Instead of being swept away by anxious thoughts or emotions, you learn to notice them without judgment. This shift in perspective allows stress to pass through without causing prolonged distress, helping you respond with calm and clarity instead of reacting impulsively.

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Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), developed by Kabat-Zinn, is an 8-week program that blends mindfulness meditation with body awareness practices. It helps people reduce stress and improve emotional well-being. Through regular practice, MBSR helps participants respond more mindfully to daily challenges, leading to better stress management, emotional balance, and overall well-being. It has been shown to be effective in treating chronic pain, anxiety, and depression, as well as enhancing resilience and quality of life.