Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy for Cancer is a course which has been researched and validated over the past 10 years and is designed specifically for people with cancer.
It is well known that having a diagnosis of cancer can be extremely stressful, making individuals and their carers prone to anxiety and depression. Many report that the psychological effects of having a cancer diagnosis can be more challenging than the physical effects of the disease. NICE guidance (2014) recommend that patients are offered psychological interventions as part of their care.
Mindfulness is a way of paying attention. When we practice mindfulness, we are training ourselves to be fully present in each moment, meeting our experience of ourselves and the world around us exactly as it is. This enables us to become skilled at working with our mind and our mental states.
Staying in touch with the present in this way, from one moment to the next, may lead you to experience yourself differently, perhaps feeling less stuck, or recognising more strength, balance and confidence in yourself. Research has shown that most people completing the programme report lasting physical and psychological benefits including:
Greater self-confidence and more acceptance of life as it is
An increased ability to cope effectively with both short and long-term stressful situations
An increased ability to relax and experience calm
More energy, enthusiasm and appreciation for life
What does the course involve?
You will be taught in a group of maximum 16 people. The course consists of 8 sessions of 2 hrs. There will be daily home practice of one hour as part of the course. You will have a course manual and audio files / downloads to help you with your home practice.
Commitment
Getting the most out of the course will require some work on your part. It requires a strong commitment to work on yourself through a gentle but rigorous daily discipline of meditation and movement practice. Making the commitment to devote the time needed for this personal exploration can feel difficult, but most people consider it worthwhile.
Once your application has been received, Stephanie will phone you for an orientation to the course and answer any questions you may want to ask.
Who is the course for?
The course is suitable for those with a diagnosis of cancer and their carers. It is best taken once active treatment has been completed.
Tuesday afternoons 2-4pm
April 20, 27, May 4, 11, 18, June 1, 8, 15
Open to those with a cancer diagnosis and their carers.
Venue: Embrace Heartspace, Commercial Road, Penryn
Cost: this course is subsidised and costs £40
For more information or to book, please get in touch.