Mindfulness seems to be the new buzzword in health and wellbeing, but the benefits are quickly being embraced by the team at Mater at Home. But what is mindfulness?
Mindfulness is the ability to pay attention to an experience in a particular way: purposefully, in the present moment, without drifting into thoughts of the past or worries about the future, and without making any judgements about the experience.
The benefits of practicing mindfulness can contribute towards reducing both physical and psychological symptoms, promoting positive changes in health, attitudes and behaviours.
Mater at Home’s Mindfulness Group program is evidence based, and undertaken with the support of social workers to truly deliver the program in a safe, stimulating and enjoyable learning environment.
Clinical Lead Social Worker for Mater at Home, Valami Qoro, said that Maters’ social work team aim to provide a safe space for participants to explore the benefits of mindfulness.
“We’re delighted to be able to offer this program to the community,” said Mrs Qoro.
“Mindfulness teaches you to be present instead of focusing energy on worrying about the past or the future which a lot of us tend to do.”
Mindfulness improves wellbeing. Being mindful encourages you to become present and enjoy the pleasures of life as they occur; creating a greater capacity to deal with challenging events.
Mindfulness improves physical health. Mindfulness techniques help relieve stress, lower blood pressure, reduce chronic pain, improve sleep, and alleviate gastrointestinal difficulties.
Mindfulness improves mental health. Mindfulness can support in treating depression, substance abuse, anxiety, memory loss and early symptoms of dementia.
The sessions are grounded in current neuropsychology research, and have an immediate and practical focus.
“The program teaches participants new methods to assist in managing negative thoughts and feelings; develops body awareness; and allows you to identify early warning signs of depression,” said Mrs Qoro.
Weekly sessions involve practical tools to implement in daily practice, including guided meditation and other mindfulness exercises. Sessions are themed each week, covering a wide variety of topics including:
- Be good to yourself
- Self-compassion
- Enjoying life
- Building strength
- Engaging in the world
- Being at peace
Mater at Home’s mindfulness group therapy program involves six, hour long sessions per theme. Learning to better manage your emotions and stress levels takes practice. To gain the maximum benefit from this program, participants are encouraged to commit to attending sessions and a regular practice of mindfulness at home.
Looking for more information about how you can join Mater at Home’s Mindfulness Groups? Contact the team and register your interest at materathome@mater.org.au. You can find out more about the program here.