“Mindfulness means paying attention in a particular way: on purpose, in the present moment, and non-judgmentally.” That definition comes from Jon Kabat-Zinn who developed a form of meditation called mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR).

MBSR helps reverse what you might call getting stuck in “autopilot mode” where you go through your day without truly thinking about what you’re doing. You may know the feeling all too well, especially when stressors like work, family activities and other obligations demand your time and attention. Even in the midst of hectic schedules or trying circumstances, mindfulness can help you to act and think more intentionally to find peace and acceptance in your present moment.

Benefits of Mindfulness

According to MBSR participants at the Sarasota Mindfulness Institute, practicing MBSR enables you to:

• Understand why you feel the way you do
• Gain control of your emotions—both the positive and negative ones
• Retrain your mind to think and respond more positively
• Deal more effectively with anxiety associated with your current life events

Additional benefits of practicing MBSR regularly, according to sources in a Herald-Tribune article titled “Mind Your Moment,” include:

• Dull or eliminate the sting of chronic pain, illness, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, fatigue, sleep disturbances and more
• Boost your immunity
• Reduce stress
• Calm your mind and let go of unhealthy thoughts
• Increase rational understanding and compassion
• Feel good about yourself and extend those feelings to someone else
• Enhance your relationships

Learn more about mindfulness and mindfulness exercises at www.mindful.org.

Sharing Personal Information Guidelines

You are a caregiving professional. The guidelines for a professional relationship are different from those of a friendship. In a professional relationship, the focus is on providing support to the client. In a friendship, people expect an even amount of give and take regarding information and support. Before you share any personal information, pause for a moment and consider how sharing it will benefit your client.

Here are a few guidelines to keep in mind:

• You have the right to keep your personal information private from the client and his or her family.
• Be friendly and conversational, but use discretion when sharing personal information with the client and family. Do not talk about personal problems or concerns during your shift.

If a client or family member asks for your personal phone number, remind them to call the franchise office for all of their scheduling and communication needs.