October 2023 - Mindfulness in the News Roundup
Mindfulness has been making waves lately and for a good reason. In this blog post, we're highlighting some of the many benefits of mindfulness including how it:
Induces calm and relaxation
Improves exercise capacity and symptoms of COPD
Reduces anxiety and depression for breast cancer patients
Decreases sick days for supervisors
The Magical Effect of Being by Water
Water's allure, from the rhythmic ocean waves to serene lakes and bubbling streams, transcends aesthetics. This connection isn't coincidental; it's evolutionary. Blue Mind Science, a term coined by marine biologist Wallace J Nicholas, explains how the mere sight and sound of water trigger a profound brain response. It turns out water is an antidote to feeling stressed, anxious, or overwhelmed. Being by water, looking at water, or listening to the sound of water releases neurochemicals that promote wellness, boost blood flow to the brain and heart, and induce deep relaxation.
Blue Mind science reminds us of meditation. It helps us feel happier, calmer, more creative, and capable of awe. Who knew water could be a tool for wellness.
Mindful Walking: COPD’s Unexpected Buddy
Mindfulness and movement are a power duo. And, a mindful walk can help those with Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Exercise isn’t easy for those diagnosed with COPD. Airflow blockage is common and breathing problems ensue. But one study showed that mindful walking increases exercise capacity and improved symptoms for a group with mild to severe COPD. It's more than just a leisurely stroll; a mindful walk helped participants be more fully present in the moment and reduced COPD risk. It's a reminder for all of us, even in the face of health challenges, mindfulness can be a powerful tool for greater quality of life.
Cancer is tough, but so is mindfulness. In this study, one group of patients received mindfulness-based therapy, while the other received routine care and nursing. The goal was to see if mindfulness had any effect on anxiety and depression in these patients.
Well, it did! By a lot. Reports of anxiety and depression were significantly lower in the group that practiced mindfulness, leading the researchers to conclude that mindfulness can improve the quality of life for patients undergoing a challenging treatment. Mindfulness isn't only about relaxation; it's about gaining control over your thoughts and emotions. It empowers patients to navigate the turbulent waters of treatment by reducing anxiety and depression, offering emotional stability in a trying time.
In the quest for less stressed, more productive workplaces, mindfulness-based programs have emerged as a potential game-changer. A recent study assessed the influence of mindfulness on sick days for managers—a concrete measure of employee well-being and productivity. The results? Managers had significantly fewer sick days. It’s a promising glimpse into the cost-effectiveness of introducing mindfulness programs in the workplace. Our suggestion, take short breaks and practice mindfulness. Teach and empower your entire workplaces to do the same. It pays off for everyone.
