Mindfulness, Emotional Well-being, and Sleep Quality

The MBSR program consists of 8 weekly classes that last for 2.5 hours each and a commitment to daily meditation practice for the duration of the course. Classes include didactic instruction on mindfulness and its relationship to stress and health, guided meditation practices, and group discussion. Mindfulness meditation practices include awareness of breathing, awareness of emotions, body scan, mindful hatha yoga, mindful walking, mindful eating, mindful listening, and lovingkindness (metta). Participants are expected to practice formal meditation outside of class for 20-45 min per day, 6 days per week. In addition, participants are encouraged apply mindfulness to everyday activities like eating, communicating with others, and hobbies. Written materials and audio CDs with guided meditations and yoga are provided. The course also includes one full day (7-hours) of meditation on a Saturday following the 6th week of class.