Mindfulness

“Mindfulness means paying attention in a particular way: on purpose, in the present moment, and non-judgmentally.”

Dr Jon Kabat-Zinn, 1994

According to an Asia-wide joint study by Aon and TELUS Health that polled approximately 1,000 Singaporean workers on their mental well-being, 52 per cent felt more sensitive to stress in 2022 compared to 2021 – even as the pandemic eased.

Stress

Burnout from workplace stress is at an all-time high since spring 2021, based on new research from Future Forum. Stress, particularly chronic stress, contributes to and exacerbates many health problems including; poor sleep, digestive issues, depression, anxiety, pain and immune system dysfunction. Evidence-based research shows that incorporating a regular mindfulness practice can help alleviate stress and improve overall health and well-being.

Benefits of Mindfulness

  • Resilience – When we are mindful, we adapt more easily to change and uncertainty. We handle stress better. We become less reactive and respond to challenging events in a more regulated way. 
  • Improved Physical and Emotional Well-being – We learn how to face life’s inevitable ups and downs more calmly. The Nervous System is better regulated, resulting in improved health and well-being.
  • Self-Awareness – We become more aware of our thoughts, emotions and physical sensations as they arise as well as unhelpful habitual patterns. 
  • Improved Focus – Mindfulness improves focus and concentration leading to increased productivity.
  • Relationships – Mindfulness strengthens relationships by cultivating compassion towards ourselves and others. 

Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) Program

The MBSR program is a 10 session course (a 1 hour Orientation session, followed by 8-weekly classes of 2.5 hours duration and a full day intensive). MBSR incorporates skills training in mindfulness, stress physiology and cognitive awareness. Tens of thousands of people on five continents have benefited from MBSR. MBSR is now offered globally in clinical settings, corporations, schools and prisons amongst others. During the course, participants develop and strengthen skills that help them focus and increase awareness of their experience. These skills are developed through in-class practice and daily home practice mindfulness exercises. With the cultivation of these skills participants are more able to draw on their own inner resources for greater balance, coping, stability and wellbeing. Lifesteps was the first organization to offer the MBSR program in Singapore in 2010.