MINDFULNESS-BASED STRESS REDUCTION (MBSR): WHAT IS IT?

● Developed by Jon Kabat-Zinn, starting in 1979 at UMass Medical Center, MBSR is an eight week educational program with mindfulness meditation training as its core. Stress drains our energy reserves, mentally and physically. It zaps our willpower. Stress can make it more difficult to “bounce back”. Over 30 years of research shows that MBSR generally decreases perceived stress of daily life and improves sense of well-being over time for people who complete the eight week course.

● Practices of mindfulness meditation and mindful movement are taught. The body’s stress response and patterns of communication are introduced with experiential activities. Group sharing focuses on the experience of these practices and activities. Scientific rationale for a mindfulness practice is introduced. Classes are designed to create a sense of community and to be supportive and encouraging; participants share only what they choose.

● MBSR is a “mind-body approach” which respects the interchange between the mind and the body and the influence they exert on each other. Persons with chronic pain conditions often report a change in their relationship to their pain. Reduction of medical and psychological symptoms has been shown for a wide range of health concerns. MBSR is a complement to conventional “mainstream” medical care, rather than a substitution.

● It is not about relaxation, although that may be part of your experience. It is common for some people to experience mild emotional discomfort at times when first beginning mindfulness. This is normal. However, if you have an active substance abuse or social anxiety, acute depression, PTSD, unresolved trauma/abuse or a recent significant loss, the discomfort may be more intense and more persistent. If you have any of these conditions, it is recommended that you discuss taking this class with your mental health or health care provider.

● This class is not considered mental health treatment, group therapy or a substitute for mental health care if needed.

● The commitment is eight weekly classes of two and a half hours, one 7.5 hour weekend day retreat and a home practice of 40-60 minutes daily. Key to the program is your personal curiosity and exploration of your patterns of thoughts, feelings, sensations and actions.

● If you are ready to make an investment in yourself and to actively participate in an experience of self-discovery to improve your sense of well-being, MBSR is worth taking seriously. The practice is simple and yet not easy. Consider joining me for this challenge and adventure. Check out the program dates below.

● 27 CE hours qualify for LCSW, LCPC, LMFT and LAC
● 27 OPI credits approved for educators

COMMENTS from PRIOR PARTICIPANTS

"I learned the difference between 'mindfulness' and 'relaxation'. I also learned the difference between reading about mindfulness and practicing mindfulness. This experience was valuable." MM

"I discovered 'my inner friend'. She is pretty cool. I like her. I am training for a marathon and mindfulness is very helpful." SL

"This class has really shown me ways to re-engage with all aspects of my body, thoughts and emotions. It has allowed me to slow down and acknowledge and break down road blocks in my life I have been facing year after year. Janet is a wonderful, supportive teacher with a vast amount of knowledge and an even bigger heart. I would highly recommend this course." KW

"I realized that it was me who brought the fear or anxiety to the experience. I am learning to just let the experience be the experience." JM

MBSR
Winter 2025

Wednesdays 6:00-8:30 PM at Lincoln Center 415 North 30th, Billings, MT
February 5th, 2025 (required free orientation) - April 9th, 2025
Saturday Retreat March 29th 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Tuition $275
Register at Billings Adult & Community Education
www.getstartedbillings.org or call 406-281-5010