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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the stress reduction program?
How can I benefit from the program?
Are there any challenges I may face?
What should I wear to class?
What should I bring to class?
May I bring food or drinks to class?
What will I need at home?
Is it possible to take the program on a private basis?

What is the stress reduction program?

The Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction program (MBSR) consists of eight weekly two-and-a-half hour classes, as well as an extended practice session between the sixth and seventh classes. The program is highly experiential and includes:

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How can I benefit from the program?

Research has shown that people who engage in mindfulness-based stress reduction can experience:

Text adapted from the Center for Mindfulness in Medicine, Health Care, and Society, University of Massachusetts Medical School, with appreciation.

Click here for a sample of research related to mindfulness-based stress reduction.

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Are there any challenges I may face?

Physical: Although the mindful stretching exercises are gentle and can be adapted to accommodate physical limitations, participants with medical and/or orthopedic conditions are advised to consult with their physician prior to engaging in any of the practices. Self-care and listening to one's body (e.g., refraining from doing anything that does not feel appropriate) take priority over engaging in specific stretches.

Emotional: As participants begin to pay attention and allow themselves to experience what is occurring in their emotional lives, feelings of sadness, fear, or anger could feel stronger initially. A history of trauma, physical/emotional abuse, or substance abuse could heighten these reactions.

Time: Participants will need to negotiate time for themselves and a space where they can practice at home. Participants who benefit most from the program commit to attending all the classes and engaging in the home mindfulness practice exercises for approximately 45-60 minutes a day. Adopting new scheduling habits may feel overwhelming at times.

Please note that this program is challenging and is NOT recommended for individuals who are currently coping with legal or illegal substance dependency (or have been in recovery for less than one year), suicidal thoughts, major depression, psychosis, post-traumatic stress disorder, or social anxiety that limits one's ability to be in a classroom situation. An orientation conversation with the instructor is required prior to the first class.

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What should I wear to class?

It is best to wear informal clothing that is loose and comfortable around the waist.

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What should I bring to class?

If you are attending class at the Reading location, you will need to bring your own exercise or yoga mat.

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May I bring food or drinks to class?

With the exception of bottled water, it is best not to bring food or drinks to class unless medically necessary.

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What will I need at home?

Access to a CD player at home is required in order to engage in the home practice assignments that are included on the mindfulness practice CDs that you will receive during the course. Alternatively, if it is more convenient for you to use an mp3 player, you may wish to convert the files on the CD to mp3 format.

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Is it possible to take the program on a private basis?

Although the original group format of the program as designed by Dr. Jon Kabat-Zinn is extremely beneficial and recommended, we understand that under certain circumstances this format may not meet the needs of individual clients. When these situations arise, we are able to offer mindfulness classes on a private basis. Please contact us directly for information regarding scheduling and fees.

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