Mindfulness Improves Stress and Psychological Well-Being in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis

Mindfulness Improves Stress and Psychological Well-Being in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis   By John M. de Castro, Ph.D.   “Studies show that for some people with MS, chronic exposure to stress is associated with worsening neurological symptoms and increased brain lesions. . . and relapses. Researchers believe that mindfulness may help people better respond to […]

Learn Mindfulness On-Line to Reduce Stress Effects

Learn Mindfulness On-Line to Reduce Stress Effects   By John M. de Castro, Ph.D.   “Mindfulness not only reduces stress but also gently builds an inner strength so that future stressors have less impact on our happiness and physical well-being.” –  Shamash Alidina   Mindfulness training has been shown through extensive research to be effective […]

Reduce Stress during Challenging Tasks with Mindfulness

By John M. de Castro, Ph.D.   “Sprinkling “Omm” mantras between “Ooh Rah!” battle cries can pay dividends for members of the Marine Corps and other branches of the military. According to a growing body of research, regular meditation improves the wellbeing of military members — both active duty and those who have previously served.” –  Ella […]

Reduce Hypertension with Mindfulness

Reduce Hypertension with Mindfulness   By John M. de Castro, Ph.D.   “High blood pressure is a silent killer. It can strike without warning, but with proper care and lifestyle changes, it can be controlled.” – Dr. David B. Ryder   High Blood Pressure (Hypertension) is an insidious disease because there are no overt symptoms. […]

Improve Asthma Symptoms with Mindfulness

Improve Asthma Symptoms with Mindfulness   By John M. de Castro, Ph.D.   “Asthma is treatable and well can be controlled.” —Cathy Freeman   Asthma is a chronic disease of the lungs that involves a persistent inflammation of the airways. When the inflammation worsens, it makes it more difficult for air to move in and out […]

Focused and Self-Compassion Meditation Have Different Effects on Attention, Well-Being and Classroom Performance

Focused and Self-Compassion Meditation Have Different Effects on Attention, Well-Being and Classroom Performance By John M. de Castro, Ph.D.   “There is no good or bad meditation — there is simply awareness or non-awareness. To begin with, we get distracted a lot. Over time, we get distracted less. Be gentle with your approach, be patient […]

Virtual Mindfulness Training Improves Well-Being

Virtual Mindfulness Training Improves Well-Being   By John M. de Castro, Ph.D.   “Spending too much time planning, problem solving, daydreaming, or thinking negative or random thoughts can be draining. It also can make you more likely to experience stress, anxiety and symptoms of depression. Practicing mindfulness exercises, on the other hand, can help you […]