Chapter 1 - Introduction to the Core Practices and Exercises

Abstract

Interventions based on the practice of mindfulness meditation and related skills are increasingly popular and empirical support for their efficacy continues to grow. The present volume focuses on mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR; Kabat-Zinn, 1982, 1990, 2013), mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT; Segal, Williams, & Teasdale, 2002, 2013), and closely related interventions. This introductory chapter provides a general overview of MBSR and MBCT in their standard forms, with emphasis on their mindfulness and acceptance-based skills, practices, and exercises. Mechanisms through which mindfulness training leads to beneficial outcomes are briefly discussed and important questions remaining for future research are considered. Building on the foundation provided by this introductory chapter, the remaining chapters describe adaptations and new interventions for specific populations. Each chapter includes theoretical foundations, a summary of empirical support, and a case study illustrating a typical course of treatment and practical issues that arise in implementing it.