Mindfulness in the Faculty of Health Sciences
Mindfulness has been defined as ‘ Paying attention in a particular way; on purpose, in the present moment, and non-judgementally (Kabat-Zinn, 1994).
There is increasing evidence coming from Mindfulness and Well- being research which suggests that there are many benefits from the practice of Mindfulness and mindfulness based meditation in terms of mental, physical health and general well-being (Davidson & Kabat Zinn, 2003). The Mental Health Foundation’s 2010 ‘Mindfulness Report’ suggests many advantages in terms of decreasing emotional distress, higher and more stable self –esteem together with the ability to enjoy more satisfying relationships and improved communication skills.
Wellness at work for staff
Informal lunchtime sessions have been run this year with the aim of introducing staff to a range of simple mindfulness based practices that can be introduced into everyday life. To give you an idea of the session topics that ahve been covered this year, please view this link: Mindful Thursdays- lunchtime sessions 2014
Mindfulness for students
A number of initiatives have been piloted for nursing students within the faculty. This has included providing an 8 week mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) course for a small group of 3rd year nursing students. A 2 hour workshop has also been delivered as part of the leadership module, again for 3rd year students. Discussions are now taking place to investigate ways in which this approach can be incorporate into the new curriculum design for all FHS students due to commence in 2015.
Session Leader
Cheryl Dunford
Cheryl works part time as a lecturer in Adult Nursing and has had a keen interest in Mindfulness meditation for many years. She has completed a Teacher Training Level 1 course with Bangor University, Centre of Mindfulness Research and Practice, and is currently undertaking an additional teacher training course with Mindfulness Trainings.
References
1. Kabat-Zinn, J. (1994). Wherever you go, there you are. Mindfulness Meditation for everyday life.Piatkus
2. The Mindfulness Report, Mental Health Foundation, 2010
3. Davidson, R.J. & Kabat Zinn, J. (2003) Alterations in brain and immune function produced by Mindfulness Meditation, Psychosomatic Medicine, 65, 564- 570