Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction

Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) is a secular, evidence-based program that uses exercises such as focusing on breath and gentle body movements to reframe our relationship to stress, pain and worry—as well as the routines of daily life. We practice noticing how the mind moves to the past and future, and returning to the present moment without judgment. We learn about stress and reactivity, and explore how to respond in a way that is nourishing and intentional rather than unhelpful and automatic—to foster calm, focus and wisdom.

The program has been around for over 40 years, and in that time there have been many scientific studies and clinical outcomes that show MBSR can help to improve mood, concentration, physical well-being, sleep quality, one's sense of balance, among other benefits. There is emerging research looking at MBSR in relation to epigenetics and inflammation. And mindfulness is endorsed by many health care and education providers to foster resilience.

I first learned of MBSR in 2008, while writing an article for Maclean's magazine about mindfulness and mental health. I knew then it was a field I would further explore one day, personally and professionally. Since then I’ve taken several mindfulness courses, and completed an intensive teacher training. Journalism and MBSR have some objectives in common—curiosity, non-judgment, inquiry, making connections and trying to understand the nature of things—and I think my experiences in both worlds complement each other.

To find out more about MBSR or to register for the next eight-week program, email me.

As a facilitator of MBSR, training with the Centre for Mindfulness Studies in Toronto, I have written and recorded mindfulness meditations for use by participants. During the program this guidance is used in conjunction with other mindfulness-based exercises in a systematic way, including a process of inquiry about the experience of meditation, as well as a study of mindfulness-based concepts—with the intention of supporting individuals in cultivating their own, personal mindfulness practice.