The principle focus of this part of the CARE program is the development of mindfulness. Mindfulness is a multi- faceted construct, but for the purposes of this training it is understood as a non-judgmental and non- reactive awareness of what is happening in the present moment with an attitude of acceptance rather than aversion. Awareness is included in this training because the first step towards ameliorating difficult situations is to recognize them.
Mindful awareness implies a certain level of equanimity and calm around this recognition, such that one is not paralyzed by reactivity. There are hundreds of studies supporting the efficacy of mindfulness practices in stress- reduction, including its effectiveness in reducing symptoms of emotional exhaustion and burnout among health professionals. In the CARE program, awareness refers not only to mindfulness practices, though, but also includes the wider dimension of awareness in that it offers participants the opportunity to learn about – to become aware of – different strategies for stress reduction at their disposal.