Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction(MBSR)

Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) is an intensive 8-week program developed by Jon Kabat-Zinn a scientist, author, and the creator of the world-renowned Stress Reduction Clinic and the Center for Mindfulness in Medicine, Health Care, and Society at the University of Massachusetts Medical School.

Studies of MBSR have consistently found several key developments that demonstrate its effectiveness as a health-promoting activity.

During this intensive program, some participants experience a newly found state of self-awareness. This is particularly helpful in helping recognize mind habit patterns that contribute to unhelpful thoughts and emotions. According to research done by Dr. Daniel Siegel, after taking the 8-week MBSR program participants were able to alter their brain function in a way that confirmed they could distinguish the “narrative chatter” creating the ability to develop discernment. This a crucial step for disentangling our minds from ruminative thoughts, repetitive destructive emotions, and impulsive and addictive behaviors. (The Shambhala Sun, March 2010).

Program Objectives:

  • Identify key aspects of mindfulness for stress reduction.

  • Develop an understanding of personal stress patterns and habits.

  • Recognize personal resources that support healthy stress management habits.

  • Learn to differentiate mindfulness from distraction or relaxation techniques.

  • Gain tools for personal and professional stress management.

  • Improve communication through mindful social interaction.

Mindful Performance Enhancement, Awareness & Knowledge (mPEAK)

mPEAK is an 8-week intensive course in mindfulness training for those who seek to draw upon this proven practice to achieve their goals, both personal and professional, as well as attain new levels of performance and success.

The foundation of this program is based on the highly respected and empirically-supported Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) program created by Jon Kabat-Zinn Additionally, mPEAK incorporates elements of sports psychology, positive psychology, and specific exercises formulated to correspond to recent neuroscientific findings and related research regarding optimal performance.

The mPEAK program was developed in conjunction with the US National BMX Cycling Team in 2014, as a collaboration between the coaches of the team, UC San Diego neuroscientists Drs. Lori Haase and Martin Paulus, and the UCSD Center for Mindfulness leaders Executive Director Dr. Steven Hickman and Managing Director Allan Goldstein.

Program Objectives:

  • Develop greater focus and concentration

  • Learn to be present to the process and let go of attachment to outcome

  • Practice responding wisely to stress rather than reacting out of fear

  • Develop resilience by learning how to be with emotionally difficult or physically painful experiences

  • Leverage personal strengths and stretch your personal edges without giving up or burning out

  • Recognize and shift from critical to compassionate inner self-talk

  • Process and learn from inevitable mistakes and failures