Mindfulness coaching

What is Mindfulness?

According to Jon Kabat-Zinn, the founder of the University of Massachusetts Centre for Mindfulness, mindfulness means “paying attention in a particular way: on purpose, in the present moment, and non-judgementally.”  In essence, being mindful can help us have richer and more fulfilling lives, just by paying attention.  Whether you’re interested in developing a relaxation practice, or you’re in recovery from illness or injury, or you want to improve your capacity to manage stress and stressful situations, or are feeling you just need to take time out from a busy life, mindfulness coaching can help you develop a toolkit that will help you mobilise your inner resources more effectively and help you to face problems artfully. 

What are the benefits of Mindfulness?

We can all benefit from practising mindfulness. Studies of people who have undergone mindfulness training show that they are able to bring a fresh attention to their life, their work, and their relationships.  They are able to respond more flexibly to challenges, and are less likely to become stressed.  And if they do encounter stress, whether at work or in their personal lives, they are more able to take steps to address it.  Through being more mindful, we can learn to:

·         stop running on autopilot and be responsive and creative

·         see and interpret information and situations with clarity

·         understand the whole picture and understand the consequences of our actions

·         evaluate and choose appropriate solutions to problems

What will I learn through Mindfulness coaching?

Coaching sessions will vary for each individual, but are likely to cover the following:

·         Developing practical skills to improve your ability to handle stress

·         Learning methods for physical and mental relaxation

·         Practising body scanning techniques to become more aware of tension build-up

·         Becoming aware of the interrelationship between mind and body in health and illness

·         Taking more responsibility for your own well-being

·         Facing change and difficult times in you life with greater ease

·         Helping yourself obtain greater balance, control and peace of mind in your life

What form does coaching take?

Coaching is in the form of an 8-session programme of individual sessions, normally undertaken weekly, with guided home practice.  This is underpinned by a manual and there are CDs to support the home practice.  It is recommended that you consider taking a one-hour taster session first to see what is involved before committing to the 8-week programme.