Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR)
Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction, (MBSR), was developed by Jon Kabat-Zinn at the Center for Mindfulness, University of Massachusetts Medical School. MBSR is an intensive training in developing mindful awareness and accessing our innate capacity for health, happiness, and growth.
We provide guided instruction in various practices, including:
- sitting and walking meditation,
- body scan,
- gentle yoga, and
- mindful communication.
These practices are enhanced through inquiry exercises, group dialogue, and daily home assignments.
Jon Kabat-Zinn’s definition of mindfulness is, “paying attention on purpose, in the present moment, non-judgmentally.” Stress is an inherent part of our lives. We do not practice mindfulness in order to escape the stress, but practice so that we can relate to our stress in a healthier way. MBSR is intended to ignite our natural capacity for awareness, and to learn ways that we can be awake and in touch with our lives as they unfold.
Benefits of MBSR
Based on published research, the majority of people who complete the course report:
- An ability to cope more effectively with both short and long-term stressful situations
- Lasting decreases in physical and psychological symptoms
- Reduction in pain levels and an enhanced ability to cope with pain that may not go away
- Improved emotional regulation
- An increase in attention, focus, and memory
- Greater happiness and resilience
MBSR Training Course
Groups meet for for an orientation, eight weekly classes, and an all-day retreat between weeks six and seven.
Who Should Attend
Individuals interested in learning strategies and developing new habits to achieve any of the above in order to better manage their health, cope with stress, and to feel joy and connection with all aspects of their lives.
Everyday Mindfulness Course
In Everyday Mindfulness, participants will practice accessing their own innate capacity for mindful awareness and experience how this capacity can support living life with more health, happiness, and wisdom. This four-week course is based on the principles and practices of the highly studied eight-week MBSR course, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction.
We provide guided instruction in various mindfulness practices, including sitting and walking meditation, mindful eating, and mindful communication. These practices are enhanced through inquiry exercises, group dialogue, and daily home practice.
Studies show that regular practice of mindfulness is correlated with:
- Improvement in attention, memory, and emotional regulation
- Increase of compassion for self and others
- Lasting decreases in physical and psychological symptoms
- An increased ability to manage stress and pain
- Greater energy and enthusiasm for life
Who Should Take This Class?
Anyone who is interested in starting to develop their own mindfulness practice or would like a boost in their existing practice. This course can also serve as an introduction or a refresher to the full MBSR.
Osher Center for Integrative Health
What is Integrative Health?
At University of Utah Health we focus on providing a customized and integrated approach to empower patients, employees, trainees, and health care professionals to live a healthy life. We are an integral part of the health care solution that maximizes preventive care--the health in health care.
About Us
Established in 2014 to align wellness services across University of Utah campuses, the Osher Center for Integrative Health provides services for patients and the community.