My first experience with mindfulness was in a group setting with children who had challenging behaviours. For some, the “fluffy cloud” visualization was amazing, but for others, it felt uncomfortable and strange. I resonated deeply with the child who shouted and protested, saying his mind was screaming at him to move or do something else.

As a therapist, I often hear people say that mindfulness is too much or uncomfortable. Louise Young’s portrayal of mindfulness using a raisin in her sketch “Feral” is hilarious, but it also serves as a reminder to those working in mental health that mindfulness practice needs to start where your client is at. They need to know the “why.”

It’s important to consider clients’ comfort and readiness when introducing mindfulness practices. Here are a few tips that have helped me ease clients into mindfulness:

1. Start Small: Introduce brief, manageable exercises like mindful breathing or body scans.
2. Explain the Benefits: Help clients understand how mindfulness can improve their mental health, reduce stress, and enhance overall well-being.
3. Use Everyday Examples: Relate mindfulness to daily activities, such as mindful eating or walking, to make it more accessible.
4. Be Patient: Encourage clients to take their time and remind them that it’s okay to feel uncomfortable initially.

Normalizing the experience is crucial. Let clients know that it’s common to feel discomfort or resistance when starting mindfulness. Sharing my own experience has helped many feel understood and less isolated. Offering alternatives, such as grounding exercises or mindful movement, can also be beneficial.

Gradual introduction and creating a safe space for clients to express their feelings and experiences without judgment are key. Meeting clients where they are and explaining the “why” behind mindfulness is essential for fostering a positive and effective practice.

Mindfulness is a spectrum, and starting in the middle of the spectrum with an activity like the “raisin exercise” can be far too much for some. Incorporating techniques like pendulation, as suggested by Deb Dana, can be particularly useful. Pendulation involves moving between a state of distress and a state of calm, helping clients to build resilience and tolerance for discomfort. Here’s how I might incorporate these ideas into my practice:

1. Gradual Introduction: Begin with short, simple mindfulness exercises and gradually increase the duration as clients become more comfortable.
2. Pendulation: Guide clients to notice their internal states and gently shift their focus between areas of tension and areas of ease. This can help them develop a sense of control and safety.
3. Client-Centered Approach: Always start with where the client is at, respecting their pace and readiness. This ensures that the practice feels manageable and supportive.
4. Explain the “Why”: Help clients understand the purpose and benefits of mindfulness, making it more meaningful and motivating for them.

By using these strategies, we can create a more personalized and effective mindfulness practice that meets clients’ unique needs and helps them gradually build their capacity for mindfulness.

How do you find your clients respond to mindfulness?