Mindfulness-Based Cancer Recovery (MBCR)

 

Mindfulness-Based Cancer Recovery (MBCR) is an evidence-based scientifically tested and internationally recognized mindfulness program. It is designed for cancer patients, caregivers and for any other persons with a pre-existing health condition. It follows a 9-week, group-based program. 

 

The MBCR program was created by Dr Linda Carlson and Dr Michael Speca at the University of Calgary, and it has been running as a clinical program for over 20 years and served thousands of patients all around the world. They have published several papers showing major improvements in patients (with breast cancer and prostate cancer) on a range of physiological and psychological measures. 

 

“These include a one-year follow-up study showing enhanced quality of life, decreased stress symptoms, altered cortisol and immune patterns consistent with less stress and less mood disturbance, and decreased blood pressure. " - Jon Kabat-Zinn, Founder of Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction

 

When you hear the words “you have cancer” it immediately grips us with fear, we feel terrified and are overcome by a sense of loss of control and uncertainty. The MBCR is proven as an efficient coping mechanism and a tool to effectively manage anxiety, isolation and helps address existential thoughts such as a lack of meaning in life, feelings of guilt, loneliness and fear of recurrence. The MBCR program at our centre will be led by a certified MBCR teacher, ensuring expert facilitation and guidance throughout the course.

 

Results after 8-9 weeks

Participant evaluations of MBCR have been overwhelmingly positive, indicating benefits such as:

 

• Higher degree of ability to manage and regulate symptoms, pain and fear 

• Lower degree of distress, anxiety and depression

• Reduced unpleasant feelings of vulnerability

• Reduced levels of sadness, isolation and existential crisis

• Increased self-awareness and self-compassion

• Discovering deeper meaning to life and happiness