mindfulness

Question 1

what is the aim of mindfulness

Answer 1

• to allow people to be in control of their own mind by paying attention to their present thoughts and emotions.
  -it will enhance a person’s positive characteristics, allowing them to become happier individuals.
• it is recommended as a preventative treatment for those who have had recurring depression and can be used in everyday life to improve well-being.

Question 2

what are the 3 main components of mindfulness

Answer 2

• gaining control of thoughts
• meditation and mindful breathing
  -informal practices of mindfulness

Question 3

explain gaining control of thoughts

Answer 3

-mindfulness teaches us to focus on our present thoughts, feelings and emotions, not the past or future.
-they should develop the ability to be accepting of their thoughts, rather than allowing them to control their behaviour and emotions.
- this helps to recognise problems before they arise, which should improve our mental health and well-being.

Question 4

outline the basic steps of mindfulness meditation

Answer 4

1. get comfortable, a quite place
2. get in position, any way the person wants
3. get relaxed, close your eyes and start breathing for five minutes
4. focus on breathing and beware of the sounds
   5.bring your thoughts back to center, be present
5. make a commitment, practice more and consistently

Question 5

explain informal practices of mindfulness and give examples

Answer 5

once learned, mindfulness can be practiced informally during everyday life, could be whilst driving, walking, running, cleaning etc.
it is the opposite of multitasking.

Question 6

what is mindfulness based stress reduction

Answer 6

a group program that was developed to treat patients struggling with life’s difficulties and physical/mental illness.
it is a flexible and customisable approach to stress reduction and instead of following a script or acting out described steps, mindfulness is practiced in the manner that suits the individual.

Question 7

what is mindfulness based cognitive therapy

Answer 7

designed specifically to help people who are prone to recurring depression.
it combines mindfulness techniques with elements from cognitive therapy to help break the negative thought patterns that are characterised as depression.

Question 8

what is a strength of mindfulness

Answer 8

supporting evidence