Today’s article from one our new student contributors, Harindhi Wimaladharma. She is an undergraduate at Victoria University and we look forward to mentoring in her early career (Dean).
Mindfulness Based Therapy (MBT) is a relatively new method of treatment in the world of Psychology. This is done through techniques where individuals are asked to focus on their present moment without letting their mind wonder off to either the past or the future.
The Origins of MBT
The origins of Mindfulness Based Therapy (MBT) comes from the early teachings of Buddhism and has been around for the past 2600 years. There are many benefits of MBT and some of these are stress reduction, boosts to working memory and better focus and attention on tasks. Individuals suffering with depression and Anxiety have also discovered that MBT has been helpful in their recovery. Mindfulness in believed to promote good health and is often used in conjunction with other forms of therapy such as Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). In this therapy approach, people learn how to use different cognitive methods with mindfulness meditation to develop a better awareness of their automatic thought processes.
During a clinical consultation, Psychologists using MBT will teach their clients to focus their mind on the present moment without being distracted by the day to day stresses and difficulties of their lives. Mindfulness can also be practised as a life skill which can help people to be reduce worry and rumination. Individuals can practice everyday mindfulness via a range of techniques which will then enhance their ability to better address the normal wanderings of the mind. If left unchecked, these wanderings can lead to anxiety and depression. Doing something as simple as spending up to 5-10 mins at home just focusing on your present moment can greatly enrich your life in many ways.
The Prahran Psychology clinic in 265 Dandenong Road Prahran VIC 3181 offers MBT as part of their treatment options.
Harindhi Wimaladharma
Victoria University Student
Ref: Clinical psychology Melbourne
Nice Job Harindhi!