Explore how to cultivate present-moment awareness and harness inner resources for facing all of life's challenges. Learn evidence-based practices to reduce stress and enhance overall well-being.
Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) is an 8-week program for faculty and staff that provides in-depth training in mindfulness meditation and movement practices, and helps participants integrate mindfulness into their daily lives. Outcomes have included reduced symptoms for stress as well as physical and behavioral health conditions such as anxiety and depression, chronic pain, hypertension.
This experiential program, created by Jon Kabat-Zinn in 1979, is based on ancient contemplative practices integrated with western science and medicine. Over 40 years of research demonstrates it consistently delivers benefits associated with increased self-awareness and attentional and emotional regulation.
Please note, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction is not appropriate for everyone. See below for more information under Is MBSR right for me?
Format
The Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction course consists of 8 weekly online, highly participatory sessions, each 2.5 hours long, and one in-person all-day intensive retreat. Each session will include guided meditation, gentle movement, or other mindfulness-based practices, group discussions, and daily homework. Please plan to have your video camera on during each session's attendance, group discussions, and breakout sessions. It is important for the psychological safety and wellbeing of the entire group that cameras are on during these elements.
This is an educational program, not a therapeutic intervention.
Objectives
Objectives for the course include:
- Establishment of a daily meditation practice
- Cultivation of mindful awareness through several different types of mindfulness practices
- Recognition of negative patterns of reactivity triggered by stressors, and the development of alternative responses to stress
- Development of a deeper connection to and understanding of one's body and emotions
- Strategies to integrate and apply mindfulness practices in both personal and professional settings
- More effective communication with colleagues, supervisors, family, and friends
Is MBSR right for me? Requirements and Precautions
While MBSR can be helpful for any individual who faces stress and challenge in their life, there are circumstances when it may not be appropriate. If you are experiencing recent grief or trauma, serious mental or physical health challenges, chemical dependencies, or suicidal feelings, please reach out to the instructor to discuss whether or not this is the best time to enroll in the program. This mindfulness-based program includes skill training or practice in meditation, gentle stretching (yoga), and other mindful movement. If for any reason you are unable to, or think it unwise to, engage in these practices and exercises, whether during the weekly sessions or practicing on your own, you are under no obligation to engage in them.
By registering, you agree to the following:
- Not to attend sessions under the influence of alcohol or recreational drugs.
- You are 18 years of age or older. MBSR is designed for adult learners.
Attendance and commitment are also important factors to consider. Participants should be able to attend each session, the all-day retreat, and to practice mindfulness at home for 30-45 minutes a day. If you already know you will miss more than one session, this might not be the time to enroll in the course.
Orientations for Summer 2026 Course
Applicants are required to attend an MBSR orientation session before their application will be considered. The orientation session is a brief overview of the course, provides context, practical and logistical information, and sets expectations. Workshop dates for the Summer 2026 course will be hosted in late March and early April - dates will be posted in early March!
Application Timeline for Summer 2026 Course
Monday, March 9: MBSR Course application opens
Friday, April 24: MBSR Course application closes
By Friday, May 8: Spring 2026 cohort selected
The Summer 2026 MBSR Course application will open on March 9
Summer 2026 Timeline Coming Soon!
Questions?
Contact Dolores Hemphill at dhemphil@tulane.edu. Dolores is a qualified MBSR instructor and will be conducting the course.
