Overview How does it work? This programme aims to teach you how to make a simple yet radical shift in relationship to your thoughts, feelings and bodily sensations. Rather than pressuring yourself to directly and immediately change any state, you will be encouraged to bring an attitude of gentle and non-judgmental curiosity to every experience, no matter what it is. The scientific and experiential research into this kind of programme suggests several mechanisms which facilitate symptom reduction and behavioural change in those who engage heartily with this practice. (See info & research links) What is mindfulness? Origins of the programme Who is it for? What does it involve? How does it work? Letting go is powerful The importance of practice - Mindfulness practice involves inducing regular states of relaxation which improves immune function, regulates the nervous system and relieves chronic stress. - The daily practice increases the ability to reflect on our thoughts, feelings and body sensations with some degree of "distance" and perspective. It helps us differentiate between thoughts, feelings and body sensations, and also to differentiate between thoughts and "facts". - Mindfulness practice builds the capacity to accept, tolerate and transform painful mind and body states without reacting so intensely to them. In this way it interrupts the spiral of distress, which can sometimes occur when we react strongly against pain or difficulties. - This provides an opportunity to deeply and clearly perceive the different levels of our experience - our patterns of thinking, feeling and action - which can keep us stuck in habitual unsatisfying states. - Acceptance of whatever is happening in the moment, rather than struggling against it or condemning it, is a practice of kindness and generosity to ourselves. This is transformative in itself. - This acceptance of our current state interrupts harsh, self-attacking patterns of thinking which can undermine good feelings about ourselves and make life feel burdensome and our options limited. - The practice also helps us to recognise and appreciate moments of relaxation, pleasure and joy in simple acts of living. - It is satisfying and empowering to regularly choose a simple way to listen to yourself and to discover that this leads to improved decision-making, more energy and calmer and less reactive engagement with others.   "When we commit ourselves to paying attention in an open way, without falling prey to our own likes and dislikes, opinions and prejudices, projections and expectations, new possibilities open up and we have a chance to free ourselves from the straitjacket of unconsciousness." Jon Kabat-Zinn "Wherever You Go, There You Are"