Last fall, my mindfulness group exchanged ideas about the benefits of mindfulness. I like to share research that suggests mindfulness practice can positively impact health. Occasionally, someone will mention that being overly aware of stress can have a negative impact. This makes sense, but I wanted to understand more so I reviewed a few research articles. What I found indicates that research supports the use of mindfulness practices for stress reduction. This may take several forms. How we think about stress can impact its effects on our bodies. If we view stress in a positive light rather than negatively, it may improve performance and reduce physical side effects often associated with stress (Jamieson, Nock, & Mendes, 2012). Reframing stress may be easier said than done. While working towards developing a positive relationship with stress, consider other ways in which mindfulness could help mitigate the harmful impact of stress on our bodies. Research supports the use of progressive muscle relaxation, guided imagery, breathing exercises, mediation, and other mindfulness-based practices to improve outcomes for patients with conditions ranging from headaches and pregnancy to cancer and cardiovascular disease (Varvogli, L., & Darviri, C., 2011). Why not give it a shot?
References
Jamieson, J. P., Nock, M. K., & Mendes, W. B. (2012). Mind over matter: Reappraising arousal improves cardiovascular and cognitive responses to stress. Journal of Experimental Psychology, 141(3), 417-422. Retrieved from http://nocklab.fas.harvard.edu/files/nocklab/files/jamieson_2012_mindovermatter_reappraisingarounsal_cardiocog_stress_jepg.pdf
Varvogli, L., & Darviri, C. (2011). Stress management techniques: Evidence-based procedures that reduce stress and promote health. Health Science Journal, 5(2), 74-89. Retrieved from http://citeseerx.ist.psu.edu/viewdoc/download?doi=10.1.1.851.7680&rep=rep1&type=pdf
