What is MBSR? Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction was developed by Jon Kabat-Zinn, PhD.(JKZ) at the UMass Medical Center in 1979. This course is designed to relieve stress. It offers practices to improve your overall health, well being and happiness. This highly evidence-based program is offered worldwide. Mindfulness is defined simply as: Paying attention on purpose in the present moment with non-judgment. We cultivate our awareness to make skillful decisions about our lives with confidence and ease.
What are the course commitments? Participants will be asked to take 30-45 minutes each day for formal and informal mindfulness practices and journalling. It is necessary to attend the weekly class. The course is structured in 8 weekly 2.25 hour sessions.
What is the cost of the course? The course materials are available on this site ($415), with a physical workbook and CD set ($460), for graduates of this course preciously taken with Diana ($295).
Will my insurance cover this course? Your company may cover a portion of the course. We will assist you with filing.
What is required of me? As Diana describes, “Mindfulness practice requires your most fierce and militant commitment to be present to your life, however it is, right now." As JKZ says, “as if your life depended on it, because it does!" If you are looking for a magic bullet, there is none. There is no way to change your life without your full commitment. Being present to your life is the greatest gift you can give yourself and others.
What is the Day of Mindfulness? Current and graduate students from Diana's previous classes are invited to attend a day of mindfulness as a part of the course. There is no additional fee for current students. The All-Day is typically offered between weeks 6 and 8 of the course or just at its end. We meet on a Saturday from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM at Questhaven Retreat Center in San Marcos, CA.
Does the medical profession endorse MBSR? Will this help with anxiety or depression? This program was originally developed within the healthcare setting and designed specifically to address the symptoms experienced by its participants for whom medical treatments were ineffective or partial in their ability to reduce pain, symptoms and the distress that comes with being human. Mindfulness is a highly researched model which has been shown to reduce the debilitating effects of illness, disease and life stressors like transitions, work demands, anxiety, depression, relationships and daily life. Click here for a list of benefits.
How does this differ from other MBSR courses and meditation practices in our area? The 8 week mindfulness course is a standard curriculum made into a unique art by the specific teacher and their own commitment to mindfulness practice and living. All mindfulness teaches are required to have a base level of practice and training through UMass Center for Mindfulness. Diana has the highest training available at this time as it relates to mindfulness teacher training and has been teaching since 1996. She also has a life- long commitment to continue the study, training and practice of mindfulness in her personal and professional life.