The University of Michigan and UAW have developed an open enrollment online Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) training program to help their members build greater resilience during times of difficulty and stress in the workplace and at home. MBSR techniques have been used in a variety of settings with groups as diverse as military veterans, first responders and nurses to improve resiliency, help with stress reduction, and generally increase the sense of wellbeing in individuals. When working in stressful situations we often don’t take care of ourselves, not only physically, but also mentally. Our schedules are altered, and we may not have time to get enough sleep, may not have access to healthy food and our immune system may become compromised. Our bodies and our minds suffer. We cannot help others if we are unhealthy, if we are stressed out. This has become even more essential as workers deal with the COVID-19 pandemic. This session will explore techniques used to assist with stress reduction with emphasis on mindfulness meditation. Attendees will participate in a guided meditation and learn the importance of holding space in their lives for themselves, so they can better care for those in need.
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