​​Susan Bauer-Wu, PhD, RN, is a nationally and globally respected leader and author in health care and contemplative science.

Susan presented on bringing mindfulness to people with serious illnesses, sharing her extensive background and research in the field. The session included a presentation, practices, and discussion exploring various mindfulness approaches and adaptations for seriously ill patients and their loved ones. The conversation ended with participants sharing personal experiences and insights, while Susan provided guidance on applying mindfulness practices to manage health challenges and enhance quality of life.

Learn more about Susan Bauer-Wu: https://susanbauer-wu.com/ 

Timestamps:

00:00:00 - Sara-Mai Conway introduces Susan Bauer-Wu, who provides an overview of today’s session

00:08:57 - Susan shares her personal clinical and research background, and about mindfulness as a tool for helping people navigate pain, suffering and serious illness

00:43:26 - Susan presents findings from a study on the effectiveness of mindfulness intervention. She presents modifications for several mindfulness practices and outlines three approaches to working with unhelpful thoughts. 

01:08:11 - Participants share their personal experiences with serious or chronic illness. Susan shares how mindfulness, curiosity, acceptance and compassion can help people navigate their experiences.

01:24:47 - Susan shares a quote and insight on how we might define quality of life. She emphasizes the role of presence and joy. The conversation ends with a poem.

Resources Mentioned:

Susan’s Book: Leaves Falling Gently
Book: Selfless Insight by James H Austin
Teacher: Mathieu Richard
Poet: Mark Nepo