Mindfulness Meditation and Stress/Anxiety

My own experience comes from co-facilitating a stress reduction group based on the Massachucettes Model established by Jon Kabat-Zinn for sufferers of chronic pain. This was modified to offer an 8 week group for individuals that were looking to reduce stress in their lives (one client had just had a quintuple bipass, another was suffering from severe panic attacks). We did use the SCL-90 to attempt to measure pre/post, as well as for screening the participants. There was some improvement in anxiety/stress levels found, however, this was not performed in a method that was publishable. The primary method used in the group was mindful meditation (seated and walking), and also included basic yoga and homework assignments that facilitated the participants being able to identify stressors and patterns of stress in their lives. Should anyone be interested, Kabat-Zinn has two books out on the topic, "Full-Catastrophe Living", and "Where ever you go, there you are". I have found both to be useful, and have incorporated some of the content into my personal life, as well as into my work with clients. The idea of being non-judgemental (toward self) works very well therapeutically with clients, and is an important part of the mindful practice.

Replies:

Using Mindfulness Meditation with Psych Students, by Lynne S. Davis, 4/6/98 New to it all, by John Gessner, 10/13/98

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