Mindfulness and Meditation: Christian Practices for the Stresses of Life

Jody Wilkinson, MD, Kinesiology

Doug Crowell, Ph.D., CSCS, CEP, CES, cPT, Kinesiology

Mindfulness and meditation practices are growing in acceptance and practice within popular culture and, with a growing evidence base, are more frequently being applied in medical and psychological healthcare settings. But are these practices, which have their roots in Eastern traditions, consistent with the Christian faith and biblical witness? In this presentation, we explore the consistency of these practices with Christianity, and share some of our experiences in adapting several of these practices in ways we feel are consistent with our Christian faith and that have helped in managing the stresses of life and cultivating greater focus and peace of mind. Participants have hands-on opportunities for learning how to implement some of these practices.