Training

Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction 

 

The 8-week (MBSR) Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Program was developed by Dr. Jon Kabat-Zinn and his associates at the (UMASS) University of Massachusetts Medical School’s Stress Reduction Clinic.  The course consists of eight weekly classes of 2.5 hrs, and one day-long silent retreat.  The day long retreat typically occurs between classes six and seven.  Homework is considered to be part of the class and takes 45 to 60 minutes a day.  While it may seem like a big investment, it does have the power to change your life.
 

During class, participation will include:
·         Guided instruction in mindfulness meditation
·         Gentle stretching and mindful movement
·         Guided dialogue/discussions 
·         Carefully selected interactive activities
·         Homework assignments
 
The curriculum has been honed during the 30 years it has been offered at the UMASS stress reduction clinic.  It is designed to teach participants how to integrate mindfulness into their everyday lives.  The approach is experiential,    in that participants learn mindfulness-based techniques which should serve them long after completion of the class.
 

MBSR (and Dr. Kabat-Zinn) have been featured on PBS in Bill Moyers' documentary, on Healing and the Mind, The Oprah Winfrey Show, NBC's Dateline, ABC's Evening News and Chronicle programs, as well as in numerous research journals and articles in newspapers, magazines, and on-line. MBSR is currently being offered in over 250 hospitals worldwide.
 

 

 

 

 

Recommended Reading: (books can be purchase hard copy or digitally)

These are recommended but not necessary for attendance

-Bob Stahl and Steve Flowers book "The Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction Workbook" 

-Dr. Kabat-Zinns' book "Full Catastrophe Living" is highly recommended, as a adjunct to class.  
-Saki Santorellis' text "Heal Thyself: Lessons on Mindfulness in Medicine" is also recommended, especially for  health care professionals. ​