Mindful Wellness

Ohio State University Extension's Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) promotes healthy living. Along with topics like healthy eating and exercise, mindfulness is gaining recognition as part of a healthy lifestyle in the United States. Ohio State University Extension offers an overview on the science behind the art of mindfulness as well as the health benefits of stress reduction. How can you live a more mindful, less stressed and healthier life?

What is mindfulness?

“Mindfulness means paying attention in a particular way: On purpose, in the present moment, and nonjudgmentally.” -- Jon Kabat-Zinn

Exploring mindfulness:

• Follow the Live Smart Ohio Mind and Body blog
• OSU Extension fact sheets:
  • Introduction to Mindfulness
  • Stress Coping Methods
  • Eating Healthy During Stressful Times
  • Helping Children Through Stressful Times

The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center recommends mindfulness practice to complement medical treatment to help reduce anxiety, chronic pain, depression, insomnia and stress. Ohio State’s Center for Integrative Health and Wellness offers free mindfulness recordings for personal use through the OSU Wexner Medical Center. Additional guided imagery downloads are available through the OSU Health Plan.

Just like learning any new skill like cooking, swimming or riding a bike, mindfulness takes time and practice. Consider listening to a download for a few times before you decide it’s not for you. Once you’ve discovered some of your favorite ways to practice mindfulness, keep it up.

Want to learn more?

For more information about the new Ohio State University Extension Mindful Wellness curriculum, contact Healthy Relationships Program Specialist Stacey Baker at baker.782@osu.edu or Lucas County Extension Educator Patrice Powers-Barker at powers-barker.1@osu.edu.