Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) is a therapeutic approach that blends the principles of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with mindfulness meditation practices. It was initially developed to help prevent relapse in individuals who have experienced recurrent episodes of depression.

Here's a breakdown of what that means:

Mindfulness

This involves paying attention to the present moment with openness, curiosity, and without judgment. It's about becoming more aware of your thoughts, feelings, bodily sensations, and the world around you as they are happening.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT focuses on identifying and changing negative or unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors. It helps you understand the connection between your thoughts, feelings, and actions.

MBCT combines these two approaches to help you

• Become more aware of your thoughts and feelings: You learn to observe your mental states without getting carried away by them.

• Recognize patterns of negative thinking: Similar to CBT, MBCT helps you identify thought patterns that might contribute to low mood, anxiety, or stress.

• Develop a different relationship with your thoughts and feelings: Instead of trying to suppress or change them, you learn to see them as passing events in the mind.

• Interrupt automatic processes: MBCT aims to help you step out of habitual, often unhelpful, reactions to your thoughts and feelings.

 

In essence, MBCT teaches you skills to become more aware of your inner experience in a non-judgmental way, which can help you to manage difficulties like depression, stress, and anxiety more effectively and cultivate a greater sense of well-being.
Would you like to know more about how MBCT works in practice?