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Effort: ⚒⚒
Cost: ＄＄
Timeframe: ⏲⏲
Participants: Employee of all levels
Approach
Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) is a technique developed by Jon Kabat-Zinn that combines various yoga and meditation practices with body (psycho)therapy approaches.
“Mindfulness” refers to a state of consciousness in which we pay attention to the present moment and observe sensations without assessing them. Mindfulness training should be optional and available to all employees and team members. External coaches with adequate experience typically lead these activities, which usually consist of a series of sessions spread out over several days or weeks depending on the type of course or curriculum. The sessions take place in a relaxing and comfortable setting. If training occurs on the company’s premises, the organizer may set aside a private space, a bright and welcoming conference room, or a lounge area separate from offices. To allow free movement, the coach should also remove tables, flipcharts, and other larger objects from the room for the duration of each session. Participants in group activities dress comfortably and sit in a circle in a non-hierarchical arrangement. At the beginning of the training, everybody decides on a way of addressing each other. In general, participants share as much information about themselves as they wish, and it is also acceptable to remain silent.
Effect
Conscious relaxation activities help participants to relieve tension in their daily work. Group training in mindful communication can have a very beneficial impact on the growth of diverse teams. Participants become more self-aware and familiar with their team members when learning a mindful communication approach together. Difficulties in collaboration can be resolved constructively and without resentment by understanding and focusing on possible disputes early on. Within the team, mindful dialog leads to a positive and trusting working environment in which members of various diversity groups can maximize their creative potential. Individual exercises (e.g., joint morning meditation) can be integrated into daily work-life after the training cycle.