Mindfulness at York Mind-Body Health

Mindfulness is a form of mind training that first developed in the ancient traditions of the East but which more recently has established itself as an evidence-based therapy in modern health services.

In mindfulness the aim is simply to be aware of and open to thoughts, emotions and sensations in the present moment, neither resisting unpleasant experiences nor craving and grasping after pleasant experiences. Mindfulness can be practised in almost any context of everyday life, or more formally in meditation.

With regular practice you can develop stillness, sensitivity, clarity, openness, stability and balance, perspective, contentment, and a sense of freedom. Mindfulness-based therapy has been shown to help depression, anxiety, and symptoms linked to stress.

A Mind-Body Approach to Mindfulness

Many people find practising mindfulness difficult - the mind feels out of control, overwhelming them with restless and distracting thoughts, or painful emotions, or urges to busy themselves in endless activity. Wilfully trying to control the mind is usually counter-productive. A better approach is to learn to embody the states we're cultivating - clarity and stillness are expressed in the body.

How Biofeedback Supports Mindfulness

Biofeedback supports mindfulness practice by giving objective feedback on physical changes, enriching our mind-body awareness and skills. For example it can flag changes associated with distractions. Given this feedback, the body can naturally and spontaneously learn, without the need for wilful effort from the thinking, judging mind. Biofeedback can make meditation an easier, more engaging and more enjoyable experience, building your motivation to maintain a regular practice.