SELF HARM RESOURCES

Mindfulness

 

Mindfulness is one of the 4 components of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).  In simplist form, it is Awareness (not relaxation!).  More specifically, Mindfulness is about observing, describing, and participating in the current moment while practicing non-judgement, being focused on only one thing at a time, and being effective (doing what is needed to get what you want/need).  

 

Starting to practice Mindfulness regularly can help you be more aware of your emotions and thoughts as they arise, and therefore have more power to chose how you act in response to your feelings and thoughts.  The ability to keep yourself in the present moment also helps in the management of overhwelming and difficult thoughts and memories.  

 

To learn more about Mindfulness:

• http://www.freemindfulness.org/breath  (an explanation of mindful breathing and one very simple exercise to try)

• http://ptsd.about.com/od/selfhelp/ht/mindfulexe2.htm (a simple breathing exercise and tips)

• http://www.pocketmindfulness.com/6-mindfulness-exercises-you-can-try-today/ (explains mindfulness and a breathing exercise)

• http://www.getselfhelp.co.uk/mindfulness.htm (Explains mindfulness, one breathing exercise, and two meditation exercises)

• http://www.mindfulnet.org/page2.htm - two short videos introducing mindfulness

• What Mindfulness is, and isn't, and a few basic exercises.

• http://theothersideofthecouch.wordpress.com/2009/05/24/coping-with-tough-times-3-dbt-skills-pt-1/