Should I take MBSR, MBCT or MSC?

Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) is considered the gold standard in modern mindfulness meditation training. The primary intention of the MBSR curriculum is to create a structured pathway to relieve suffering (stress) and increase well-being for people facing a variety of challenges (i.e., anxiety, depression and chronic pain, etc.) or for those looking for new ways to meet the demands and stressors inherent in our everyday lives (i.e., relationships, health, work, etc.)

The program is highly experiential and teaches both formal and informal mindfulness practices. The program harnesses our innate capacity to be aware and our inner resources as the foundation for developing healthy behaviours, emotional resilience, and an overarching sense of well-being that can be effectively developed and relied upon throughout our lives.

Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) combines the practice and clinical application of mindfulness meditation with the tools of cognitive therapy to break the cycle of recurrent depression.

MBCT is primarily designed to help prevent relapse in individuals who have struggled with acute/clinical depression or anxiety. If you’ve been treated for one or more depressive episodes in the past and are ready to learn new skills for preventing further episodes, MBCT is for you.

The Mindful Self-Compassion (MSC) program combines mindfulness and self-compassion to teach participants powerful skills and resources for emotional resilience. It is ideally suited for those struggling with an inner critic, perfectionism, managing difficult emotions, or feeling unable to “get out of their own way.” The eight-week MSC program is often the next step after taking the MBSR program.

Research indicates that self-compassion is one of the most powerful sources of coping and resilience, radically improving our mental and physical well-being. It motivates us to make changes and reach our goals not because we’re inadequate but because we care and want to be happy.

Do I need any prior meditation experience before taking an eight-week MBSR program?

No, MBSR is suitable for people with no experience and a great place to start.

Why do I have to attend an orientation before starting the program?

At Mindfulness at Centrepointe, we want to ensure participants have a good experience in the MBSR, MBCT or MSC programs. The orientation session provides an opportunity for you to see what the program is about to make an informed decision about whether the program is right for you.

What is the payment and cancellation policy?

Payment may be made by credit card, cheque, or by Interac e-transfer.

A 100% refund will be issued for cancellation requests received up to one week before the start of class.

A refund (minus a $150 processing fee plus HST) will be issued for cancellation requests received up to 3 days before the start of class.

A refund (minus a $300 processing fee plus HST) will be issued for cancellation requests received after the first class. No refunds will be issued after that time.

What is included in the MBSR Program?

The eight-week workshop includes the following:

• 27 hours of guided instruction on mindfulness and meditation.

• Body awareness exercises, including gentle, mindful hatha yoga, body scan, sitting meditation and others.

• Guided reflection and exercises on how to apply mindfulness to daily life.

• Group inquiry, guidance, and peer support.

• Daily assignments for home practice, including weekly re-cap emails.

• Audio recordings for daily 30-45 minute home practice sessions (many participants incorporate these into their lives after completing the workshop).

• A home practice manual.

What happens if I must miss a class?

Generally, we recommend registering for the next round if you have to miss more than two classes.  Even though we strongly encourage full attendance, life can get in the way, so it is not uncommon for people to miss a session or even two. The teacher will send out weekly recap emails and home practice, so you will know what was missed, and if you continue to practice throughout the week, that will be helpful.

Participants can also make up a missed class during the next MBSR round at no cost.  Jennifer Innes also offers private make-up sessions at a discounted rate for MBSR participants to cover key missed didactic material.  You can email her at info@omwellness.ca.