Stress has been labelled a "world wide epidemic" resulting in far reaching consequences for both individuals and the workplace in general.

Some of these include:

· poor performance

· escalating absenteeism

· high job turnover

· poor self-management

· dysfunctional work relationships

· general health and wellbeing deterioration

One of the main causes of stress is mental rumination, in other words the mind’s incapacity to stay focused in the present moment.

In contrast, one of the greatest skills found in high performing individuals (such as top athletes and successful business executives) is their capacity to focus solely on the task at hand, in other words to focus on the now. Imagine a workplace that reflects these qualities.

Meditation is a simple and effective tool for achieving this. Meditation encompasses a variety of techniques which all help quieten the busy mind by keeping our attention centred in the present moment, thus making the mind clear, peaceful and focused.

“I have always been a grasper. I hold onto things and find it incredibly hard to let go, be it at work, in relationships or in everyday life. I have always been one to dwell in the past and this has in turn created such a weight in my body and mind that before I know it I almost don't know myself...I gather stress, worries, disappointment and the weight of the world on my back which has actually led to health problems.

After starting meditation the realization has come - Its not the end of the world! And what happens around me is in a way insignificant. I’ll admit I still grasp and stress but meditation gives me time to let it all wash away and be at peace. When you are in the moment, you are in that moment, and I believe it’s the only time you truly understand yourself and where discoveries can be made.

Maya’s voice is like a body scan… It washes over you and you feel all the knots dissolve.”

Sarah from “Common Ground”