Skip to main content

A mind-body approach to stress reduction

How Mindfulness-based Stress Reduction (MBSR) helps cultivate awareness for better decision making

Mindfulness-based Stress Reduction (MBSR) is a standardised programme of mind-body therapies that involves mindfulness meditation and education. This internationally recognised protocol conducted by certified trainers is practised around the world, most often through 6-8 weeks of training, meeting on a weekly basis.

Mindfulness practice is ideal for cultivating greater awareness of the unity of mind and body, as well as the ways the unconscious thoughts, feelings, and behaviours can undermine emotional, physical, and spiritual health. The mind is known to be a factor in stress and stress-related disorders, and meditation has been shown to positively affect a range of physiological processes, such as lowering blood pressure and reducing overall stress and emotional reactivity. MBSR has evolved into a common form of complementary medicine addressing a variety of health problems.

In addition to mindfulness practices, MBSR uses yoga to help reverse the prevalence of disuse atrophy caused by our culture's largely sedentary lifestyle, especially for those with pain and chronic illnesses. The programme brings meditation and yoga together so that the virtues of both can be experienced simultaneously.

Help for healthier living

Whether you’re an individual looking to improve your health and wellness with self-care resources, or an organisation taking steps to help build a more resilient workforce, there are programmes and resources that can help, including MBSR.

Our private medical insurance and well-being benefits support self-care as well as sick care. We focus on holistic health — mental and physical wellness. We believe that healthy, happy individuals are more fulfilled and productive.

Want to know more about Aetna’s MBSR programme? Learn more in our comprehensive guide to our confidential employee assistance services.

Visit Aetna International’s Mental health support resources for more infographics, articles and information on promoting positive mental health in the workplace.

This information is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. All content, including text, graphics, images and information is for general information purposes only.

Aetna® is a trademark of Aetna Inc. and is protected throughout the world by trademark registrations and treaties.

We use cookies to give you the best possible online experience. See our cookie policy for more information on how we use cookies and how you can manage them. If you continue to use this website, you are consenting to our policy and for your web browser to receive cookies from our website.