What is Integrated Mind Training?
Integrated Mind Training is a form of coaching that brings together the best practices from Buddhist and Western psychology. This holistic approach to meditation and psychological growth personalizes coaching and practice routines to the unique needs and disposition of each client. Below are core components of IMT:
1
Attachment
As infants, we develop one of four attachment styles with our primary caregiver: Secure, Avoidant, Anxious/preoccupied, or Disorganized. Our attachment style lays the template for all future relationships and for our own psychological development. Using an attachment-based protocol, we can “remap” our internal attachment model for optimal wellbeing.
2
Nervous System
A key component of mind-training is working with the nervous system. Some meditation techniques emphasize a top down approach, but working with the nervous system directly is sometimes more effective. By learning breathing and body-based practices, we can influence the nervous system to reduce stress, regulate moods, and increase energy.
3
Emotional
Humans are primarily motivated by emotions. Most modern people are not fully in touch with their emotional experience, and thus develop neurosis, bad judgment, and excess stress. By learning to access our emotions through practices like focusing and voice dialogue, we can overcome stuck patterns and awaken to a deeper, embodied wisdom that is always accessible.
4
Cognitive
Various tools can be used to change thinking patterns in a way that benefits one’s well being. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy provides evidence-based interventions to change thinking patterns. Analytical meditations from the Gelugpa school of Tibetan Buddhism train the mind to change perspective by systematically focusing on beneficial viewpoints and thought patterns.
5
Environmental
A key component to working with the mind is setting up the environment for success. Various psychological models teach us how to make changes to our environment to limit negative habits and promote positive emotions. Traditional Buddhist mind-training emphasizes career, community, behavior, and environment as necessary for effective mindfulness practice.
6
Habit
“We are what we repeatedly do”. Without the ability to make consistent habits, it is impossible to see the benefits of any mind-training work. Through the science of behavior change, IMT offers several strategies for creating habits that last. When one optimizes their daily habits, positive growth and development begin to compound.
7
Interpersonal
Relationships are difficult. Intimate and family relationships are a mirror that show us where we need to grow and serve as constant challenges. Being skilled in professional relationships is a prerequisite for a fulfilling and successful career. IMT empshaseizes emotional intelligence, active listening, and clear communication as a path to improved relationships.
8
Peak Performance
Positive Psychology offers various practices that help bring a healthy functioning person more joy, meaning, and flow. These practices begin where traditional psychotherapy leaves off, and aim to help individuals reach their highest capacity. Clarifying one’s meaning in life, cultivating positive emotions, and optimizing flow experiences help lead us from languishing to flourishing.
9
Spiritual
Spirituality allows us to see beyond our limited self. Meditations from the Zen and Tibetan Buddhist tradition are particularly effective at inviting a state of awareness that transcends ordinary consciousness. Touching into this timeless awareness as a daily practice humbles us and is the beginning and endpoint of all mind-training work.