UMass Memorial Health Center for Mindfulness
Whether you want to reduce stress, support your health and wellness or simply enjoy being more present in your daily life, we can help. Through our online programs, we provide mindfulness education and guidance. We invite you to explore these programs and experience what mindfulness can bring to your life.
Mindfulness is awareness that arises through paying attention, on purpose, in the present moment, non-judgmentally, in the service of self-understanding and wisdom.
Jon Kabat-Zinn, PhD | Wherever You Go, There You Are: Mindfulness Meditation in Everyday Life
What Is Mindfulness?
Mindfulness is about being here now. When we practice, we get still and observe our internal experiences, including the sensations, thoughts and emotions that arise. We use them to anchor ourselves in the present moment. Using intention, we pay attention to these experiences without being self-critical or trying to change them. This awareness allows us to relate to our experiences with kindness and openness, rather than judgment.
Mindfulness can help you:
- Manage stress, pain, illness and life’s challenges more effectively
- Reduce anxiety, depression and feelings of imbalance
- Be more present, grounded, focused and directed in your life
- Develop a sense of well-being, confidence, clarity and creativity
Practicing mindfulness can benefit your mind as well as your body. In addition to lowering stress and improving emotional regulation, studies show that regular mindfulness practice can be a powerful tool for people with a variety of mental and physical health diagnoses. These conditions include asthma, gastrointestinal disorders, diabetes and chronic pain.
Mindfulness Programs, Courses and Retreats
Whether you’re new to mindfulness or interested in deepening your practice, the CFM has something for you. Our programs, courses and retreats are open to participants age 17 and older. You don’t need to be a UMass Memorial Health patient or have a doctor’s referral to join.
Browse all online programs and classes
Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR)
Manage stress, reduce anxiety and explore the mind-body connection. Developed at UMass Memorial Medical Center (now UMass Memorial Health) in 1979, the original MBSR program is now taught worldwide. Our certified instructors draw on their training and deep personal mindfulness practice to guide participants through eight weeks of shared discovery. Register for MBSR.
Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)
MBCT was developed for people living with recurring depression and related mood disorders. It combines mindfulness practices with cognitive approaches. MBCT helps you work with difficult thought patterns and emotions in ways that open space for choice and self-compassion. Register for MBCT.
About the Center for Mindfulness
With a long history of making mindfulness relevant and accessible in everyday life, the CFM continues to support our UMass Memorial Health community and participants from around the world. We are dedicated to helping people explore present-moment awareness through mindful practice. Learn more about our work and get to know our team of experienced instructors.
Explore Mindfulness Articles
Rooted in Calm: Embracing Mindfulness in Nature
Help Us Make a Difference
Your gift allows us to continue offering mindfulness programs that make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. Join us in supporting this work. Donate to the CFM.
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Practice sharing the fullness of your being, your best self, your enthusiasm, your vitality, your spirit, your trust, your openness, above all, your presence. Share it with yourself, with your family, with the world.
Jon Kabat-Zinn, PhD | Wherever You Go, There You Are: Mindfulness Meditation in Everyday Life
Contact Us
Have questions about our classes? Email us at mindfulness@umassmemorial.org.