Online MBCT/MBSR Lesson 6:
Thoughts Are Not Facts

Theme of MBCT/MBSR Lesson 6

Relating differently to our thoughts: Our thoughts have a powerful effect on our mood, and all too often we get stuck in our heads and allow our thoughts to dictate how we feel. But our thoughts are just thoughts, nothing more, and we don't need to let them control us like this. In this session, we'll learn two ways we can relate to our thoughts differently than we usually do that can take away their power and help us change the way we feel.

Agenda for MBCT/MBSR Lesson 6

Lessons 6 and 7 cover a great deal of new material and take longer to complete than previous sessions. In order to get the most out of this session, it's best if you can complete it over more than one sitting.

1. Mindfulness of Breath, Body, Sounds, Thoughts, Feelings and Choiceless Awareness Meditation
 
2. Home Practice Review
 
Break
 
3. Thoughts Are Not Facts and Automatic Negative Thoughts
 
Break
 
4. Meditating in Silence
 
5. Home Practice

Preparation for MBCT/MBSR Lesson 6

Worksheets: You can download or print off the worksheets we'll be using this session in advance using the links below:

Audio Files: All of the audio files we use throughout the program are embedded for playback at the relevant part of each lesson. You can also download them in advance below. We'll be using the following audio files during this session:

Other Materials:

• A notebook for any notes you may wish to make, or at least a couple of blank sheets of paper for the exercises we'll be doing
 
• For the Mindfulness of Breath, Body, Sounds, Thoughts, Feelings and Choiceless Awareness Meditation, you'll need a place to sit:
  • cross-legged on the floor, perhaps on a cushion; or
  • on a firm chair with no armrests (such as a kitchen or dining room chair) where you can sit with your feet flat on the floor and your back not resting on the back of the chair
  • a clear space where you can do some formal walking meditation