Although initially a little sceptical when referred to the virtual Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction Programme, I was open to anything if it would help with my pain. Overall, the programme has raised my awareness of triggers and the perception of pain. Although I did not find everything useful, there were some techniques that I have incorporated into my daily life, such as the STOP technique (with Observation being the most important element for me), body scan and breathing, almost as second nature now. Whilst it is difficult to draw a link between the programme and pain reduction (due to COVID-related delays between the time when pain was at its most severe and the start of the programme, when it was already less severe, I would say that, regardless of where anyone is on the pain scale, having the opportunity to take part in it is well worth taking. It was also very useful to hear about the experiences of co-attendees, and the staff facilitating the programme were fantastic!

Steve (2021)