To be mindful is being aware of how you think and feel in each moment. We often think we are aware, however nearly half of our time is lost in thought, worrying about the past and things we can’t do anything about, or predicting a future that we haven’t even experienced yet.
This back and forth locks us into stress and anxiety. Awareness offers us a choice to be present and find peace in the here and now.
Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy, MBCT, is a modified form of cognitive therapy that incorporates mindfulness practices that include present moment awareness, meditation and breathing exercises. It has been clinically proven  to improve mental wellbeing and promote a sense of connectedness. It supports people to be in the here and now and break away from negative thought patterns.
Our local Mind has been selected to take part in an exciting study to explore an
innovative way to deliver mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT).
This study is led by the University of Manchester and Tend VR as an approach to
helping people with depression and/or anxiety.
We are recruiting adults who have experienced recent anxiety or depressive
symptoms to test this innovative approach over a 10-12-week period.
The delivery of this mental health innovation will be at our hub, The Angel Centre, and you
will be required to visit for one hour per week to complete the mindfulness practice.
If you would like to take part, we will be asking you to complete questionnaires and possibly an interview to provide feedback on your experience receiving this innovative approach to MBCT delivery. The programme and the VR equipment will be provided, free of charge but you will need to have access to a smart phone so that you can download a mobile app that accompanies the MBCT programme.
If you are interested in participating in this mental health study and advancing the progress of VR to improve mental health, please complete the Expression of Interest Form (EOI)Â
If you have any questions after you have looked at the EOI then please email research@tend-vr.com.
You can also find out more about the study and immersive VR programme through our taster videoÂ
Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction is a course that has been designed to help you incorporate regular mindful activities and meditation into your daily life. You will be guided through theory, practice, and independent learning by one of our experienced mindfulness teachers. MBSR has been shown to manage stress and anxiety and improve mood. It helps step out of the thinking brain that can cause us to be reactive, so you are better able to make decisions and be more self-aware. A regular mindfulness practice can also ensure we notice the positive and the good in our lives, improving our well-being and connection to our family and friends.
I have to say that Emran’s course had a level of impact that I have not experienced before. His positive energy was refreshing and I appreciated that he provided real science with each meditation. It made the practices more tangible and relatable.
Farhed
it has been really helpful in giving me ‘time-out’ to stop and be more in the moment. I have learnt a lot of new coping skills reflections and strategies. The tutors have been really friendly and inviting.
Emily
I participate as it is very good for me. I get good energy, I need it. It helps me physically and mentally. I would like to continue practicing.
Nesa
I have found the course really beneficial and would highly recommend it to anyone interested in learning how to respond rather than react in certain situations. It’s also given me a far better understanding of what mindfulness is rather than just sitting there meditating.
Ben
