Case Study: How Mindfulness Transformed Zara's Approach to Stress and Well-Being

Zara, a student who recently completed my 8-week bespoke mindfulness course, generously shared her experience and insights, which is a great opportunity to delve into her journey and discover the transformative effects of mindfulness on her stress relief and overall well-being.

Mandy: My students often come from very different backgrounds, and I was wondering what initially sparked your interest in exploring mindfulness.

Zara: I've known for some time that it works but had never developed a regular practice. I wanted help to establish that and to see what it could do for me at this stage of life.

Mandy: I know I ask my students  a lot of questions at the start, to make sure the programme’s uniquely structured for them.

Zara: Yes, you really looked into my current situation, what I wanted to get out of the sessions and what my values were. And then each session was tailored to address what we’d discussed as well as some other things I hadn't thought of. It was fine though, and I found it very relaxing. Maybe because you’re so grounded yourself.

Mandy: Thank you! I offer the option to take the course with others, and you took yours with a friend. I was wondering how you found it.

Zara: I found it helpful to discuss between the three of us and see how we each responded to the course. It was also nice to have the extra social interaction.

Mandy: When you were taking the programme, did you notice any changes in your awareness of thoughts, feelings, and emotions? Did the programme help you become more mindful of these things, and did you see any clear benefits?

Zara: I felt more aware of my thoughts and feelings. I felt as though I was starting to see myself more objectively and understand myself more. It’s still early days, but I didn’t get as affected by outside stimuli as I normally would have.

Mandy: Were there any specific techniques or practices taught in the programme that resonated with you? I was wondering how they might have contributed to your stress relief journey.

Zara: It's hard to pinpoint certain techniques or practices. I would say one of the main benefits was not just the content but the regularity of the sessions. Seeing the cumulative effect, the benefit of having someone lead the sessions, and the human connection of having someone pay attention to an aspect of my well-being and through that the sense of community it also provided.

Mandy: Sometimes people have personal breakthroughs or moments of clarity as well. Did this happen to you ?

Zara: Yes, I noticed how my stress levels measured much lower on the days of our sessions. It wasn't foolproof if something I found stressful came along, but it was a marked difference, and I can see how with time I would respond less, particularly immediately and stay more grounded.

Mandy: Were there any aspects of the programme that you found particularly challenging or difficult?

Zara: Yes, the daily practice, it's only 10 minutes but so easy to put it off, which is totally counterproductive.

Mandy: Looking back, what would you say were the most valuable lessons or takeaways from this mindfulness 8-week programme in terms of stress relief or a newly gained self-awareness?

Zara: I'm more conscious of the stories we tell ourselves. I would really like to separate myself from the stories that I learned growing up or culturally that don't serve me or my family. Also, it's exciting to think I could counter the sensitive tendencies of a my nervous system.

Mandy: I was wondering how you feel about Mindfulness now, and how you’re feeling about continuing with it.

Zara: I’m very excited to carry it on. I feel as if I’ve had a peek of what it can be for me, and that's very exciting. I've experienced this rather than just thought about it on an intellectual level, so it's a useful anchor to hold on to and refer back to.

Are you looking for help in managing your stress levels? If so, I can create a bespoke programme for you. If you're interested, I invite you to book a free consultation here to explore how mindfulness can benefit you now and for long-term happiness.

PHOTO CREDIT: Motoki Tonn