Program Summary
Stress Less with Mindfulness introduces participants to the experience and practice of mindfulness to reduce stress. Mindfulness means paying attention in a particular way: on purpose, in the present moment, and non-judgmentally. Research has shown that practicing mindfulness is effective in reducing stress-related symptoms such as worry, depression, and physical tension, and may be helpful in managing chronic conditions such as cardiac disease and diabetes. The program is offered as either a five-part series or as a one-time workshop. Two program evaluation surveys collect different outcomes for series and one-time events.
Program Benefits
- Practicing mindfulness can bring improvements in both physical and psychological symptoms as well as positive changes in health, attitudes, and behaviors.
- This program provides participants with an introduction and new skills to the practice of mindfulness to reduce stress, depression, and anxiety.
- Lessons include:
- Beginning with Breath
- Mindful Eating
- Laughter is Good Medicine
- Be Kind to Your Mind
- Mindful Walking
- As a result of the program, past participants showed improvement in these outcomes.
- 96% can identify their personal stress barometers.
- 96% now use mindful breathing to calm themselves in the face of stress
- 91% practice mindful movement as a way of calming the mind and body.
- 91% use mindful awareness when eating
- 96% describe how a mindfulness perspective can change reactions to daily stressors.
Target Audience
Adults: Easy and very popular program to offer with audiences ranging from senior centers, worksites wellness program, substance abuse treatment facilities to educators (both early childhood and school age), parents and caregivers.
Program Length
Either a 5-week series (covering 5 lessons, one a week) or one-time workshop.
Program Cost
Need to get trained, then up to instructors who locally implement.
Equipment Needed
Laptop/Projector for presenting slides; paper questionnaire; paper evaluations
Contact
Michigan State University: Holly Tiret at tiret@msu.edu