Introduction to MBSR and MBCT

Abstract

Mindfulness is generally defined to include focusing one’s attention in a nonjudgmental or accepting way on the experience occurring in the present moment (Kabat-Zinn, 1994; Brown and Ryan, 2003; Linehan, 1993). It is an open and receptive awareness and attention, which may be reflected, in a more regular or sustained consciousness of ongoing events and experiences (Brown & Ryan, 2003). MBSR stands for mindfulness-based stress reduction program. It is an 8-week program developed by Jon Kabat-Zinn. MBSR uses a combination of mindfulness meditation, body awareness, and yoga to help people become more mindful.It was originally developed for patients in chronic pain, undergoing intensive treatments for cancer, AIDS and other serious illness, but has since expanded and been incorporated into the daily lives of ten of thousands of people whether they are dealing with the serious stress of illness or simply the day to day stress which at times seems like it can be too much to handle. MBCT stands for mindfulness-based cognitive therapy and developed by Zindel Segal, Mark Williams and John Teasdale, based on Jon Kabat-Zinn’s Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction program. It is an 8-week program specifically designed to help you deal with persistent unwanted mood states. MBCT has been tested in research and proven effective for depression, as well as anxiety and a wide range of other problems.