Mindfulness — the practice of focusing your attention on the present — may seem like a simple concept, but it isn’t always easy to grasp, at least at first. Many people start by taking a class, but you can also learn on your own with the help of books, tapes, and information found on the Web. Here are some suggestions for where to look.

Web sites

Center for Mindfulness in Medicine, Health Care and Society
University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA

Provides information on mindfulness and offers mindfulness based stress reduction programs. Founded by Jon Kabat-Zinn, Ph.D., author of numerous scientific papers on the clinical applications of mindfulness; instructor in mindfulness and MBSR; and author of several books for lay audiences, including Full Catastrophe Living: Using the Wisdom of Your Body and Mind to Face Stress and Wherever You Go, There You Are: Mindfulness Meditation in Everyday Life. Kabat-Zinn’s mindfulness meditation books, CDs, and tapes may be ordered here.

Benson-Henry Institute for Mind Body Medicine
Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA

Under the direction of Harvard Medical School’s Dr. Herbert Benson, who pioneered the “relaxation response,” the Benson-Henry Institute works to advance the study and practice of mind-body medicine. On the Benson-Henry Web site, you can find an overview of mind-body medicine, as well as information and instructions in mindfulness practice, stress-management, and eliciting the relaxation response. Books, CDs, and tapes are available through the Web site.

Harvard Health Publications Special Health Reports

Stress Management: Approaches for preventing and reducing stress

While some stress is inevitable, when your body repeatedly encounters a set of physiological changes dubbed the stress response, trouble can brew. Stress may contribute to or exacerbate various health problems. But it’s possible to dismantle negative stress cycles. This report can help you identify your stress warning signs and learn how to better manage stressful situations. Learn more »

Understanding Depression

Sadness touches all of our lives at different times, but depression can have enormous depth and staying power. It can leave you feeling continuously burdened and can sap the joy out of once pleasurable activities. This report provides in-depth information on treatment options, including medication, therapy, exercise, and new approaches. You’ll also learn about the biology of depression and bipolar disorder. Learn more »

Positive Psychology: Harnessing the power of happiness, personal strength, and mindfulness

Tough economic times are the perfect setting to begin using positive psychology to your advantage, says a new report from Harvard Medical School. This report is a guide to the concepts that have made "Positive Psychology" the most popular course at Harvard University, and teaches how to put positive emotion to work in your life. Learn more »