Upcoming Classes and Workshops

Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR)

Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) is a method of using meditation and yoga to cultivate awareness and reduce stress. It is based on the ancient practice of mindfulness, which is about waking up, being fully alive, and being present in the richness of each moment of our lives. Within this awakening, we gain access to our deepest inner resources for living, healing, and coping with stress. In our program, participants practice present moment awareness, deep relaxation, and gentle movement. Through the use of these techniques, a person learns to discover and observe his or her reactions to life's stressors and to choose how to respond. With practice, one can apply these skills to everyday situations and connect more fully with one's self, loved ones, and the life one is living.

Download the MBSR brochure

About the Program

Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) programs similar to ours have been offered in the United States and around the world for over 20 years, and thousands of people have participated. This approach can help people who are coping with medical problems, job or family-related stress, and anxiety and depression. The majority of participants report lasting decreases in both physical and psychological symptoms. Pain levels improve and people learn to better cope with pain that may not go away. Most people also report an increased ability to relax, greater enthusiasm for life, improved self-esteem, and increased ability to cope more effectively with stressful situations. However, Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) is a complement, not a substitute, for whatever medical treatments a person may be receiving and should not be used in place of medical care

The MBSR program at Duke began in 1998 as part of the newly formed Integrative Medicine Program (now Duke Integrative Medicine). Initial funding for both programs came from a three year grant from the Duke Endowment. Since its beginning in 1998, the Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction program at Duke Integrative Medicine has grown into one of the leading MBSR programs in the country. We offer MBSR classes four times a year, plus graduate classes and monthly continuation classes. We have also actively collaborated in several research projects involving mindfulness and health.

Common Reasons People Take Our Classes

The majority of participants report lasting decreases in both physical and psychological symptoms. Pain levels improve and people learn to cope better with chronic pain. Most people also report an increased ability to relax, a greater enthusiasm for life, improved self-esteem, and increased ability to cope more effectively with stressful situations.

• ADD/ADHD
• Anger/stress management
• Anxiety, panic, or depression
• Chronic Pain
• Daily life stress
• Fatigue
• Headaches
• High blood pressure
• Job or family stress
• Personal growth and development
• Serious illness
• Sleep disturbances
• Type A behavior