Mindfullness

Mindfulness is an evidence-based, non-religious practice, which involves directing our attention to our experience as it unfolds, moment by moment, with open-minded curiosity and acceptance.

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Although originally derived from Buddhism, Mindfulness as a ‘movement originated largely through the work of Jon Kabat-Zinn working in the Medical Department at the University of Massachusetts in the 1980s.

It was found to be very effective among people suffering from chronic pain and stress, where medication didn’t seem to help.

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In the early 90s clinicians in the UK started researching and applying the practice, along with CBT, to people suffering from depression as a way to lessen their chances of relapse. Due to the success of these approaches, mindfulness came to be applied to ever-wider circles. To those working in health care, education, social services and corporate institutions. In fact to all those interested in ‘wellbeing’.

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Mindfulness has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety, but also to help people appreciate the richness of their lives, as they actually are, rather than as they would wish them to be or feel they should be.

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"Around us, life bursts with miracles - a glass of water, a ray of sunshine, a leaf, a caterpillar, a flower, laughter, raindrops. If you live in awareness, it is easy to see miracles everywhere. Each human being is a multiplicity of miracles……When we are tired and feel discouraged by life's daily struggles, we may not notice these miracles, but they are always there."  

 

Thich Nhat Hanh