At the core of this hands-on resource for psychologists and other practitioners, including educators, coaches, and consultants, is Mindfulness-Based Strengths Practice (MBSP), the first structured program to combine mindfulness with the character strengths laid out in the VIA Institute's classification developed by Drs. Martin E. P. Seligman and Christopher Peterson. This 8-session program systematically boosts awareness and application of character strengths - and so helps people flourish and lead more fulfilling lives. The author's vast experience working with both mindfulness and character strengths is revealed in his sensitive and clear presentation of the conceptual, practical, and scientific elements of this unique combined approach. It is not only those who are new to mindfulness or to character strengths who will appreciate the detailed primers on these topics in the first section of the book. And the deep discussions about the integration of mindfulness and character strengths in the second section will benefit not just intermediate and advanced practitioners. The third section then leads readers step-by-step through each of the 8 MBSP sessions, including details of session structure and content, suggested homework, 30 practical handouts, as well as inspiring quotes and stories and useful practitioner tips. An additional chapter discusses the adaption of MBSP to different settings and populations (e.g., business, education, individuals, couples). The mindfulness and character strengths meditations on the accompanying CD support growth and development. This highly accessible book, while primarily conceived for psychologists, educators, coaches, and consultants, is suitable for anyone who is interested in living a flourishing life.

Table of Contents:
Mindfulness and Character Strengths A Practical Guide to Flourishing Ryan M. Niemiec Table of Contents (preliminary) Foreword, Preface Acknowledgements Section I: Primers Chapter 1: A Primer on Mindfulness Chapter 2: A Primer on Character Strengths Section II: Integration Chapter 3: The Integration of Mindfulness and Character Strengths Chapter 4: Practice I: Strong Mindfulness (Bringing Strengths to Mindfulness) Chapter 5: Practice II: Mindful Strengths Use (Bringing Mindfulness to Strengths) Section III: MBSP Chapter 6: Overview of MBSP "Of What Avail Is an Open Eye If the Heart Is Blind" Chapter 7: Session 1: Mindfulness and Autopilot Chapter 8: Session 2: Your Signature Strengths Chapter 9: Session 3: Obstacles Are Opportunities Chapter 10: Session 4: Strengthening Mindfulness in Everyday Life (Strong Mindfulness) Chapter 11: Session 5: Valuing Your Relationships Chapter 12: Session 6: Mindfulness of the Golden Mean (Mindful Strengths Use) Chapter 13: Session 7: Authenticity and Goodness Chapter 14: Session 8: Your Engagement With Life Chapter 15: Additional MBSP Features and Adaptations for Different Settings/Populations Section IV: Resources Appendix A: General Tracking Form Appendix B: X and Y: A Marriage of Character Strengths Appendix C: Mindfulness at the Movies Appendix D: Character Strengths Q & A Appendix E: Website Resources References Index Audio CD Content (preliminary): 1. Introduction 2. Body Mindfulness 3. You at Your Best and Strengths-Spotting 4. Character Strengths Breathing Space 5. Strengths Gatha 6. Loving-Kindness Meditation 7. Strength Exploration Meditation 8. Fresh Look Meditation (reframing problems with strengths) 9. Signature Strengths Breathing Space 10. Best Possible Self