Mindfulness meditation - Wellington College Intranet

Mindfulness Meditation.

Mindfulness has been a feature of the well-being programme at Wellington since it began in 2006. It is an ancient practice which simply requires one to attend non-judgmentally to the present moment, rather than allowing one's mind to flit between past present and future. There are many things that can be used as a focus for mindfulness, from the breath to walking, from sounds in the world around us to sensations in our body.

There has been a lot of scientific interest in mindfulness. It is perhaps best known for the link between the practice of mindfulness and stress reduction (MBSR) or treating depression (MBCT), for which it has been shown to be particularly effective. Research over the last few years has also made a strong connection between mindfulness and happiness. It seems that those who meditate regularly exhibit higher levels of activity in the left pre-frontal cortex of the brain, which is associated with positive emotion. There is also a proposed connection between mindfulness and creativity. Tal ben Shahar suggests that just three deep, well-taken breaths can start off a virtuous cycle of calm and begin to undo feelings of anxiety.

There is exciting work being done into developing a mindfulness course for schools at the moment. You can find more information about it here: http://mindfulnessinschools.org

At Wellington, simple, short meditations form part of the well-being lessons. Mr Morris also runs mindfulness sessions in the houses by request. If you would like to have a mindfulness session for 10-15 minutes as part of your house or department's daily routine, get in touch with him.

For more information on mindfulness courses go to http://www.bemindful.co.uk. For more information on insight and loving kindness meditation retreats and workshops in the South East go to: http://www.londoninsightmeditation.org.uk