MBCT Liberal Education Integration Plan
A Comprehensive Framework for Personal Development Through Contemplative Scholarship
Executive Summary
This comprehensive educational plan integrates Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) as a cornerstone element within a liberal education framework designed for personal development and contemplative scholarship. The approach synthesizes your existing meditation practice and connections with Unified Mindfulness and Oxford Mindfulness communities into a rigorous 18-month educational journey that bridges ancient wisdom traditions with contemporary psychological science.
The integration strategy unfolds through five progressive phases, beginning with foundational theoretical understanding and evolving into advanced application and potential teaching preparation. This approach honors both the systematic precision of Unified Mindfulness methodology and the evidence-based rigor of Oxford Mindfulness research, while positioning MBCT within the broader context of liberal arts education that emphasizes critical thinking, interdisciplinary connections, and intellectual virtue development.
Key benefits include developing sophisticated understanding of mind-body integration, acquiring evidence-based tools for psychological wellbeing, establishing expertise in contemplative pedagogy, and creating a foundation for potential teaching or community leadership. The plan emphasizes experiential learning balanced with scholarly rigor, ensuring both personal transformation and intellectual development.
The timeline progresses from foundational learning (months 1-3) through experiential integration (months 4-6), advanced application (months 7-9), synthesis and mastery (months 10-12), and ongoing development (year 2+). Each phase includes specific learning objectives, assessment protocols, and integration strategies designed to deepen both understanding and embodied practice.
This educational approach represents a pioneering integration of therapeutic mindfulness within liberal education, creating a model for holistic personal development that honors both contemplative traditions and contemporary scientific understanding while maintaining the intellectual rigor and broad perspective characteristic of liberal arts education.
Section 1: Foundational Learning Phase (Months 1-3)
Core Objectives
- Establish comprehensive theoretical foundation in MBCT principles and methodology
- Integrate MBCT understanding with existing Unified Mindfulness and Oxford Mindfulness knowledge
- Develop scholarly approach to contemplative study through liberal arts methodology
- Create personal practice routine incorporating MBCT-specific techniques
Week-by-Week Learning Architecture
Weeks 1-2: Historical and Theoretical Foundations
- Study the development of MBCT through the work of Mark Williams, John Teasdale, and Zindel Segal
- Examine the integration of Kabat-Zinn’s MBSR with Beck’s cognitive therapy
- Read “Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy for Depression” (Segal, Williams, Teasdale) - Chapters 1-4
- Complete Oxford Mindfulness online introduction to MBCT theory
- Begin daily 10-minute MBCT breathing meditation using provided audio guides
Weeks 3-4: Cognitive Theory Integration
- Deep study of Beck’s cognitive model and automatic thought patterns
- Examine the relationship between thoughts, emotions, and behavioral responses
- Read “Feeling Good” by David Burns (selected chapters) for cognitive therapy foundation
- Practice thought observation techniques using Unified Mindfulness noting methodology
- Begin weekly 2-hour study sessions combining reading, reflection, and practice
Weeks 5-6: Mindfulness Research and Evidence Base
- Study key research papers on MBCT efficacy for depression relapse prevention
- Examine neuroscientific research on mindfulness and emotional regulation
- Read selections from “Altered Traits” by Goleman and Davidson
- Engage with Oxford Mindfulness research database and recent publications
- Establish connection with local MBCT research or practice community
Weeks 7-8: Liberal Arts Integration
- Explore philosophical foundations of mindfulness in Buddhist psychology
- Examine connections between MBCT and Western philosophical traditions (Stoicism, phenomenology)
- Read selected passages from William James’ “Varieties of Religious Experience”
- Write first integration paper: “MBCT as Contemporary Application of Classical Philosophical Principles”
- Begin planning for experiential phase integration
Weeks 9-12: Practice Development and Assessment
- Complete formal 8-week MBCT program curriculum (accelerated self-study version)
- Establish daily formal practice routine: 20-30 minutes combining breath awareness, body scan, and cognitive observation
- Create personal manual integrating MBCT with Unified Mindfulness systematic approach
- Complete first phase assessment: theoretical knowledge test and practice evaluation
- Design personal adaptation of MBCT for ongoing integration with existing practice
Learning Resources
- Primary Texts: “Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy for Depression” (Segal, Williams, Teasdale), “The Mindful Way Through Depression” (Williams, Teasdale, Segal, Kabat-Zinn)
- Research Access: Oxford Mindfulness research publications, MBCT research database
- Practice Materials: Oxford Mindfulness MBCT audio guidance, Unified Mindfulness integration protocols
- Assessment Tools: Self-evaluation questionnaires, practice logs, theoretical comprehension tests
Section 2: Experiential Integration Phase (Months 4-6)
Core Objectives
- Deepen embodied understanding through intensive MBCT practice
- Integrate MBCT with existing Unified Mindfulness and Oxford Mindfulness engagement
- Develop teaching and sharing capabilities through peer learning
- Create interdisciplinary connections with liberal arts subjects
Intensive Practice Development
Month 4: Formal Practice Establishment
- Increase daily formal practice to 45 minutes: 20 minutes MBCT meditation, 15 minutes body scan, 10 minutes walking meditation
- Attend weekly MBCT group sessions (local or online Oxford Mindfulness offerings)
- Begin advanced Unified Mindfulness training integration with MBCT techniques
- Start weekly contemplative reading group focused on MBCT and related texts
- Establish mentor relationship with experienced MBCT practitioner or teacher
Month 5: Application and Integration
- Apply MBCT techniques to daily life challenges and stress responses
- Practice teaching MBCT concepts to friends or family members
- Complete advanced online course in MBCT instruction or teacher training preparation
- Write integration journal: daily reflections on MBCT practice and life application
- Participate in intensive retreat experience (3-5 days) focused on MBCT practice
Month 6: Scholarly Integration
- Research and write comprehensive paper on MBCT integration with liberal arts education
- Design and present workshop for local community on MBCT and personal development
- Complete intermediate assessment of practice development and theoretical integration
- Begin planning advanced application phase projects
- Establish ongoing supervision or mentorship for continued development
Community Engagement
- Join local MBCT practice group or establish peer learning circle
- Participate in Oxford Mindfulness online community discussions and forums
- Attend regional mindfulness conference or professional development workshop
- Create study group with other practitioners interested in MBCT integration
- Establish ongoing connection with academic or clinical MBCT community
Integration Projects
- Philosophy Integration: Write paper connecting MBCT with existentialist or phenomenological philosophy
- Psychology Integration: Create comprehensive review of MBCT research and clinical applications
- Literature Integration: Analyze literary works through MBCT lens of thought observation and emotional awareness
- History Integration: Research historical precedents for cognitive-contemplative integration in various cultures
Section 3: Advanced Application Phase (Months 7-9)
Core Objectives
- Apply MBCT principles to complex life situations and ongoing challenges
- Develop expertise in adapting MBCT for different populations and contexts
- Create original contributions to MBCT understanding and application
- Prepare for potential teaching or professional development in MBCT
Advanced Practice Development
Month 7: Specialized Application
- Focus MBCT practice on specific personal growth areas (relationship patterns, work stress, creative blocks)
- Study specialized MBCT adaptations (MBCT for anxiety, bipolar disorder, chronic pain)
- Complete teacher training preparation course or intensive workshop
- Begin supervision with qualified MBCT instructor for teaching development
- Create personal protocol for using MBCT in crisis or difficult situations
Month 8: Innovation and Adaptation
- Design innovative MBCT integration approaches for specific populations or contexts
- Research and experiment with technology-enhanced MBCT (apps, VR, biofeedback)
- Create original workshop or presentation on MBCT integration with liberal education
- Begin pilot teaching experience with small group or individual mentoring
- Write advanced integration paper on novel applications or adaptations of MBCT
Month 9: Professional Development
- Complete advanced training in MBCT instruction or related therapeutic approaches
- Attend professional conference focused on mindfulness-based interventions
- Establish professional network of MBCT practitioners and researchers
- Complete comprehensive portfolio of MBCT learning and development
- Begin preparation for advanced certification or professional credentialing
Original Contribution Projects
- Research Project: Design and implement small-scale research study on MBCT integration effectiveness
- Curriculum Development: Create comprehensive curriculum for MBCT integration in educational settings
- Community Program: Design and launch community-based MBCT program for specific population
- Technology Innovation: Develop app, website, or digital tool for MBCT practice support
- Publishing Project: Write article or book chapter on MBCT integration for publication
Section 4: Synthesis and Mastery Phase (Months 10-12)
Core Objectives
- Integrate all learning into coherent personal and professional framework
- Demonstrate mastery through teaching, writing, or community leadership
- Create sustainable long-term practice and development plan
- Establish foundation for ongoing contribution to MBCT community
Mastery Demonstration Projects
Month 10: Integration Synthesis
- Complete comprehensive integration of MBCT with Unified Mindfulness and Oxford Mindfulness frameworks
- Create personal practice manual incorporating all learning and adaptations
- Design and deliver major presentation or workshop demonstrating integrated understanding
- Complete advanced assessment demonstrating theoretical knowledge and practical competence
- Establish ongoing relationship with mentor or supervisor for continued development
Month 11: Community Contribution
- Launch community program, workshop series, or educational offering incorporating MBCT
- Complete significant writing project (research paper, book chapter, comprehensive guide)
- Provide mentoring or teaching to others beginning MBCT study or practice
- Participate in professional conference or symposium as presenter or workshop leader
- Create resource materials for others pursuing similar integration
Month 12: Future Planning and Sustainability
- Design comprehensive plan for ongoing MBCT development and practice
- Establish goals for continued professional development or advanced training
- Create sustainable practice routine for maintaining and deepening MBCT integration
- Develop five-year vision for continued contribution to MBCT community or field
- Complete final comprehensive assessment and portfolio review
Capstone Projects (Choose One)
- Research Thesis: Original research study on MBCT effectiveness or novel application
- Educational Curriculum: Comprehensive curriculum for MBCT integration in specific educational context
- Community Program: Fully developed and implemented community-based MBCT program
- Publication Project: Book, research paper, or comprehensive guide for publication
- Professional Certification: Completion of advanced MBCT teacher training or related professional credential
Section 5: Ongoing Development Phase (Year 2+)
Sustainability Framework
- Daily Practice: Maintain 30-45 minute daily formal practice integrating MBCT with personal preferences
- Weekly Engagement: Participate in ongoing group practice, teaching, or professional development
- Monthly Assessment: Regular self-evaluation and practice adjustment based on changing needs and circumstances
- Annual Intensives: Retreat, advanced training, or intensive study to deepen understanding and refresh commitment
- Community Contribution: Ongoing teaching, mentoring, or professional contribution to MBCT field
Advanced Development Pathways
- Academic Pathway: Pursue advanced degree in psychology, contemplative studies, or related field with MBCT focus
- Clinical Pathway: Complete clinical training and certification for professional MBCT instruction or therapy
- Educational Pathway: Develop expertise in contemplative education and MBCT integration in academic settings
- Research Pathway: Engage in ongoing research on MBCT effectiveness, applications, or innovations
- Community Leadership Pathway: Establish and lead community-based programs or organizations focused on MBCT
Continuous Learning Plan
- Annual Reading: 12-15 books annually on MBCT, mindfulness research, and related topics
- Professional Development: Annual conference attendance, workshop participation, or training completion
- Practice Evolution: Regular assessment and adaptation of personal practice based on new learning and changing life circumstances
- Network Maintenance: Ongoing engagement with professional and community networks for support and collaboration
- Innovation Projects: Annual commitment to developing new approaches, resources, or contributions to MBCT field
Resource Compendium
Essential Reading List
Foundation Texts (Months 1-3)
- Segal, Z. V., Williams, J. M. G., & Teasdale, J. D. (2018). Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy for Depression (2nd ed.) - The definitive guide to MBCT theory and practice
- Williams, M., Teasdale, J., Segal, Z., & Kabat-Zinn, J. (2007). The Mindful Way Through Depression - Accessible introduction with CD of guided practices
- Beck, A. T. (1976). Cognitive Therapy and the Emotional Disorders - Essential background in cognitive theory
- Kabat-Zinn, J. (2013). Full Catastrophe Living (Revised edition) - Foundation text for mindfulness-based interventions
Intermediate Texts (Months 4-6) 5. Crane, R. (2017). Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy - Oxford Mindfulness Center comprehensive guide 6. Bernstein, A., Hadash, Y., Lichtash, Y., Tanay, G., Shepherd, K., & Fresco, D. M. (2015). Decentering and Related Constructs - Advanced theoretical understanding 7. Young, S. (2016). The Science of Enlightenment - Unified Mindfulness systematic approach 8. Germer, C. K., Siegel, R. D., & Fulton, P. R. (Eds.). (2016). Mindfulness and Psychotherapy (2nd ed.) - Clinical applications and integration
Advanced Texts (Months 7-12) 9. Kuyken, W., Crane, R., & Williams, J. M. G. (2012). Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy: Distinctive Features - Advanced practitioner guide 10. Didonna, F. (Ed.). (2009). Clinical Handbook of Mindfulness - Comprehensive clinical applications 11. McCown, D., Reibel, D., & Micozzi, M. S. (2010). Teaching Mindfulness - Pedagogical approaches and methods 12. Goleman, D., & Davidson, R. J. (2017). Altered Traits - Neuroscientific research on meditation
Online Resources and Courses
Oxford Mindfulness Resources
- MBCT Online Course: https://www.oxfordmindfulness.org/learn-online/
- Research Database: Access to current MBCT research and publications
- Teacher Training Programs: Comprehensive certification pathways
- Community Forums: Practitioner discussion and support groups
Unified Mindfulness Resources
- Systematic Training: www.unifiedmindfulness.com
- Online Community: Practice groups and discussion forums
- Teacher Training: Advanced certification programs
- Integration Protocols: Specific methods for combining approaches
Professional Development
- Center for Mindfulness (UMass): MBSR/MBCT professional training
- Mindfulness in Schools Project: Educational integration resources
- International Association for Healthcare Communication: MBCT clinical applications
- Mindfulness-Based Resilience Training: Community program development
Practice Materials and Guided Meditations
Audio Resources
- Oxford Mindfulness MBCT audio series (8-week program)
- Unified Mindfulness systematic practice library
- The Mindful Way Through Depression CD set
- Insight Timer app: MBCT-specific guided meditations
- UCLA Mindful Awareness Research Center free downloads
Assessment Tools
- Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire (FFMQ)
- Mindful Attention Awareness Scale (MAAS)
- Cognitive and Affective Mindfulness Scale (CAMS-R)
- Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (DASS-21)
- Personal practice tracking sheets and progress indicators
Community Connections and Group Opportunities
Local Resources
- MBCT practice groups through community centers or healthcare systems
- University-based contemplative studies programs and meditation groups
- Buddhist meditation centers offering secular mindfulness programs
- Psychology practices or clinics offering MBCT groups
- Continuing education programs for healthcare and education professionals
Online Communities
- Oxford Mindfulness online practice groups and forums
- Unified Mindfulness community platform and regional groups
- Professional associations for mindfulness-based intervention practitioners
- Academic research groups and collaboration networks
- Social media groups focused on MBCT practice and integration
Practical Implementation Tools
Weekly and Monthly Practice Schedules
Phase 1 Weekly Schedule (Months 1-3)
- Monday: 45 minutes study + 15 minutes breath awareness practice
- Tuesday: 30 minutes reading + 20 minutes body scan meditation
- Wednesday: 60 minutes intensive study session + 15 minutes walking meditation
- Thursday: 30 minutes reading + 20 minutes MBCT audio-guided practice
- Friday: 45 minutes study + 15 minutes informal mindfulness practice
- Saturday: 90 minutes comprehensive study and practice session
- Sunday: 30 minutes reflection and integration + 30 minutes formal practice
Phase 2-4 Weekly Schedule (Months 4-12)
- Daily: 45 minutes formal practice (varying techniques)
- Monday: Group practice or teaching preparation (90 minutes)
- Wednesday: Advanced study session (60-90 minutes)
- Friday: Integration project work (60-120 minutes)
- Sunday: Comprehensive practice and reflection (90 minutes)
Learning Objective Checklists
Theoretical Understanding Checklist
- Can explain the relationship between cognitive therapy and mindfulness principles
- Demonstrates understanding of automatic thought patterns and cognitive distortions
- Can describe the neuroscientific basis for MBCT effectiveness
- Understands the specific applications of MBCT for depression relapse prevention
- Can compare and contrast MBCT with other mindfulness-based interventions
- Demonstrates knowledge of research evidence supporting MBCT effectiveness
Practical Competence Checklist
- Maintains consistent daily formal meditation practice
- Can guide others through basic MBCT meditation techniques
- Applies MBCT principles effectively to personal life challenges
- Demonstrates ability to observe thoughts without automatic reaction
- Can teach basic cognitive awareness and decentering techniques
- Shows competence in integrating formal and informal mindfulness practice
Reflection and Journal Prompts
Weekly Reflection Questions
- How has my understanding of the relationship between thoughts and emotions evolved this week?
- What MBCT techniques have been most beneficial for my personal practice?
- How am I integrating MBCT principles with my existing Unified Mindfulness and Oxford Mindfulness engagement?
- What challenges have arisen in my practice, and how have I addressed them?
- How might I share or teach what I’m learning to benefit others?
Monthly Integration Prompts
- Write a comprehensive reflection on how MBCT is changing your relationship to difficult thoughts and emotions
- Analyze a specific life situation using MBCT principles and cognitive awareness techniques
- Create a teaching outline for sharing MBCT concepts with others in your community
- Reflect on the integration of MBCT with liberal arts education and intellectual development
- Design a personal experiment for deepening your MBCT practice in the coming month
Integration Exercises and Assignments
Phase 1 Assignments
- Write 1000-word essay on “MBCT as Bridge Between Ancient Wisdom and Modern Psychology”
- Create personal manual integrating MBCT with existing meditation practice
- Design presentation for sharing MBCT concepts with friends or family
- Complete comprehensive reading notes and concept mapping for all foundation texts
Phase 2-3 Assignments
- Develop and deliver workshop on MBCT for specific audience (colleagues, community group, etc.)
- Create comprehensive review of MBCT research with implications for practice
- Design innovative application of MBCT for specific context or population
- Complete teaching practicum with feedback from qualified instructor
Phase 4 Capstone Assignments
- Major research project, curriculum development, or community program implementation
- Comprehensive portfolio demonstrating integration of learning and competence development
- Professional presentation or publication demonstrating expertise and contribution to field
- Design sustainable plan for ongoing development and community contribution
Troubleshooting Guide for Common Challenges
Practice Consistency Issues
- Problem: Difficulty maintaining daily formal practice
- Solutions: Start with shorter sessions; use accountability partner; link practice to existing habits; vary techniques to maintain interest; address underlying resistance through inquiry
Integration Overwhelm
- Problem: Feeling overwhelmed by amount of material and multiple approaches
- Solutions: Focus on one technique at a time; create clear priorities; seek mentor guidance; reduce external commitments temporarily; practice patience and self-compassion
Theoretical Complexity
- Problem: Difficulty understanding complex psychological or philosophical concepts
- Solutions: Break concepts into smaller parts; use multiple learning modalities; seek discussion partners; apply concepts immediately to personal experience; use analogies and examples
Community Connection Challenges
- Problem: Difficulty finding appropriate practice groups or mentors
- Solutions: Expand search radius; utilize online communities; create own study group; reach out directly to teachers or practitioners; be patient and persistent
Motivation Maintenance
- Problem: Loss of enthusiasm or commitment during intensive study periods
- Solutions: Reconnect with original motivation; vary learning activities; celebrate progress; seek inspiring talks or retreats; remember larger purpose and vision
Appendices
Glossary of Key Terms and Concepts
Automatic Thoughts: Spontaneous thoughts that arise in response to situations, often containing cognitive distortions or biases that contribute to emotional distress.
Cognitive Fusion: The tendency to become overly identified with thoughts, treating them as literal truth rather than mental events.
Decentering: The ability to observe thoughts and emotions from a distanced perspective, recognizing them as temporary mental events rather than defining aspects of self.
Metacognitive Awareness: The capacity to be aware of one’s own thinking processes, including the ability to observe thoughts, emotions, and reactions without becoming overwhelmed by them.
Mindful Breathing: Formal meditation practice focusing attention on breath sensations as anchor for present-moment awareness and foundation for cognitive observation.
Relapse Prevention: Primary clinical application of MBCT, helping individuals with history of depression recognize early warning signs and respond skillfully to prevent full relapse episodes.
Rumination: Repetitive thinking patterns focused on problems, causes, and consequences of distress, often maintaining or exacerbating depressive symptoms.
Three-Minute Breathing Space: Brief formal practice central to MBCT, involving awareness of present experience, focused attention on breathing, and expanded awareness of body and environment.
Recommended Apps and Digital Tools
Primary Practice Apps
- Insight Timer: Extensive library of MBCT-specific guided meditations and community features
- Headspace: Structured programs including anxiety and depression-focused content
- Calm: Daily calm sessions and specialized programs for stress and anxiety
- Ten Percent Happier: Evidence-based approach with expert teachers and MBCT content
Tracking and Assessment Tools
- Mindfulness Coach: Evidence-based app with practice tracking and assessment features
- Sanvello: Mood tracking with cognitive behavioral therapy integration
- MindShift: CBT-based anxiety management with mindfulness components
- Daylio: Micro mood diary for tracking emotional patterns and practice correlation
Educational and Research Tools
- Oxford Mindfulness Online Platform: Comprehensive courses and teacher training resources
- Unified Mindfulness Learning Platform: Systematic training modules and community access
- ResearchGate: Access to latest MBCT research publications and researcher networks
- Google Scholar: Academic research database for MBCT and related studies
Template Forms for Tracking and Assessment
Daily Practice Log Template
- Date: ___________
- Formal Practice: Type: _______ Duration: _______ Quality (1-10): _______
- Informal Practice: Situations: _________________ Techniques Used: _________________
- Insights or Observations: _________________________________________________
- Challenges or Difficulties: _______________________________________________
- Integration with Daily Life: ____________________________________________
Weekly Assessment Template
- Week of: ___________
- Overall Practice Consistency: _____________________________________________
- Key Learning or Insights: _______________________________________________
- Challenges Addressed: ___________________________________________________
- Progress Toward Goals: __________________________________________________
- Adjustments for Coming Week: ____________________________________________
Monthly Progress Review Template
- Month/Year: ___________
- Theoretical Understanding Development: _____________________________________
- Practical Competence Growth: ____________________________________________
- Integration with Liberal Arts Studies: _________________________________
- Community Engagement Activities: _________________________________________
- Goals for Next Month: ___________________________________________________
Bibliography and Further Reading Suggestions
Historical and Philosophical Foundations
- Rahula, W. (1974). What the Buddha Taught
- James, W. (1902). The Varieties of Religious Experience
- Nanamoli, B. (Trans.). (1995). The Middle Length Discourses of the Buddha
- Wallace, B. A. (2007). Contemplative Science
Cognitive Therapy and Psychology
- Ellis, A. (1962). Reason and Emotion in Psychotherapy
- Burns, D. D. (1980). Feeling Good: The New Mood Therapy
- Leahy, R. L. (2003). Cognitive Therapy Techniques
- Nolen-Hoeksema, S. (2000). The Role of Rumination in Depressive Disorders
Neuroscience and Research
- Siegel, D. J. (2007). The Mindful Brain
- Davidson, R. J., & Lutz, A. (2008). Buddha’s Brain: Neuroplasticity and Meditation
- Tang, Y. Y., Hölzel, B. K., & Posner, M. I. (2015). The neuroscience of mindfulness meditation
- Vago, D. R., & Silbersweig, D. A. (2012). Self-awareness, self-regulation, and self-transcendence
Educational Integration and Pedagogy
- Palmer, P. J. (1998). The Courage to Teach
- Barbezat, D., & Bush, M. (2013). Contemplative Practices in Higher Education
- Hart, T. (2004). Opening the Contemplative Mind in the Classroom
- Zajonc, A. (2009). Meditation as Contemplative Inquiry
Clinical Applications and Professional Development
- Baer, R. A. (2003). Mindfulness Training as a Clinical Intervention
- Hayes, S. C., Strosahl, K. D., & Wilson, K. G. (2011). Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
- Linehan, M. M. (2014). DBT Skills Training Manual
- Santorelli, S. F. (1999). Heal Thy Self: Lessons on Mindfulness in Medicine
This comprehensive plan provides a structured yet flexible framework for integrating MBCT into your liberal education journey while honoring your existing connections with Unified Mindfulness and Oxford Mindfulness communities. The approach balances rigorous scholarship with deep experiential learning, creating a foundation for both personal transformation and potential contribution to the broader MBCT community.