Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR)

Mindfulness, as defined by Jon Kabat-Zinn the founder of the Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) program, is awareness that arises through paying attention, on purpose, in the present moment, non-judgmentally in the service of self-understanding and wisdom. MBSR is an empirically-supported program that leverages mindfulness as a way to help people build new responses to internal and external stressors. The MBSR course is intensive and highly experiential, and research among those who have completed a course has demonstrated the possibility of positive outcomes related to physical and mental health symptoms, attitudes and behaviors.

Following an initial orientation, the MBSR course consists of eight weekly classes and one daylong class/retreat. The following are included throughout the course:

• Guided instruction in various mindfulness practices
• Seated mindfulness meditation practices
• Stretching/mindful movement practices
• Small and large group discussions
• Home practice assignments (including meditation/mindfulness practices as well as exercises related to content presented in class)
• Guided audio files for home practice

Below are additional details regarding the MBSR course:

Goals

• Learn about mindfulness and stress
• Explore behavioral, physical, emotional & cognitive patterns related to stress
• Learn mindful ways to respond to stress within ourselves and interactions with others
• Integrate mindfulness practices into daily life

Format

• All classes will be offered online via Zoom
• Each class will consist of time to practice together and discuss content related to mindfulness and stress

Class Times

• Orientation, Class Time & All Day Retreat: Dates + times are TBD

Requirements

• * Must be able to attend two of first three classes to continue through the remainder of the MBSR course
• Approximately 45-60 minutes of daily home practice throughout the program
• Cost: $400** (includes all classes & day-long retreat)
• No refunds offered after Orientation class

Next Steps

If you are interested in signing up for the next MBSR course please contact us via email: info@andersonville.com to be added to our interest list. Once the next start date for this group has been confirmed, the group facilitator will reach out via email with a registration form and schedule a brief interview to discuss any questions you may have, and determine if you are a good fit for the course.

Testimonials

The mindfulness techniques taught in this class have been a huge help in lowering my anxiety and stress! Many people struggling with similar issues would benefit from taking this course! – J.W.

From my experience within this group I found ways to focus on practice over perfection. I learned that not every type of meditation is for me, but that meditation doesn’t have to look a certain way, or last for a certain duration of time to help me with living my life more presently. Overall I am finding myself less reactive to daily stressors, and able to anchor myself when feeling anxious. I appreciated the group therapy format to gain perspective on how mindfulness was being applied in other’s lives, which encouraged me to prioritize the practices for myself. – A.B.