Deadlines, multiple priorities, and stress are a part of everyday life. But research is revealing that there are simple techniques available to combat these anxieties. Loma Linda University Health is offering a way to help employees reap these benefits.
According to John Testerman, MD, PhD, chair, family medicine department, mindfulness is being fully present and open to one’s life experiences while they are happening, instead of being lost in thoughts and worries about the past or future. “Mindfulness meditation,” he says, “uses attention training exercises to strengthen the mind’s ability to come back to present reality when it gets sidetracked, promoting a state of calm attentiveness.”
This is enforced by research findings demonstrating that mindfulness meditation improves well-being, sleep, and empathy, as well as decreasing burnout, stress, anxiety, and depression. It is taught at more than 300 medical centers nationally because of its positive effects on mental and physical health, and chronic pain.
Dr. Testerman is hosting a free weekly mindfulness training and practice group from 5:30 to 6:15 p.m. on Wednesdays in the Meridian Conference Room in the LLU East Campus administration building. Loma Linda University Health staff are welcome.
For more information, e-mail Dr. Testerman: jtesterman@llu.edu.