Body Scan Meditation Guide & Log
A trauma-sensitive body scan meditation guide with step-by-step instructions, safety adaptations and a 7-day practice log for recording sensations and mood.
2-page fillable PDF · US Letter (prints on A4) · Mindfulness practice
- Approach / concern
- Meditation & Mindfulness
- Technique
- Mindfulness practice
- Format
- Fillable PDF, 2 pages (US Letter / A4)
- Access
- Pro and Advanced plans (3-day free trial)
- For
- Licensed clinicians to use with clients
- Updated
- October 2026
Key facts
What is the Body Scan Meditation Guide & Log?
The body scan is a foundational practice in Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), developed by Jon Kabat-Zinn. It involves systematically moving attention through the body and observing sensations with curiosity and acceptance, training attention and interoceptive awareness.
Why it works
MBSR programs, which include regular body scan practice, reduce stress, anxiety and depressive symptoms in healthy adults (Khoury et al., 2015). The body scan also supports pain management and sleep and helps clients relate differently to uncomfortable sensations (Kabat-Zinn, 1990).
When to use it
- Stress and anxiety
- Chronic pain and illness
- Sleep difficulties
- Mindfulness-based programs and groups
How to use it in session
- Explain that the aim is noticing, not relaxing.
- Guide a short practice in session and debrief.
- Offer trauma-sensitive adaptations.
- Assign daily practice with an audio recording if possible.
- Review the log and normalize wandering attention.
Clinician tips
- Start with shorter practices (5-10 minutes) for beginners.
- Invite choice and eyes-open practice for trauma survivors.
- Falling asleep is common; sitting up can help.
Worked example
Sharing with clients
Members can download the PDF to print or email, or copy a private client link from the download box. Your client opens the link and downloads the worksheet on any device. No client account is needed, and nothing your client writes is stored on TherapyAid.
Frequently asked questions
Is the body scan meant to relax me?
Relaxation often happens, but the main aim is awareness. Some sessions will feel restless, and that’s part of practice.
Can trauma survivors do body scans?
Often yes, with adaptations such as eyes open, shorter practices and choice about which areas to focus on.
References
Kabat-Zinn, J. (1990). Full catastrophe living: Using the wisdom of your body and mind to face stress, pain, and illness. Delacorte.
Khoury, B., Sharma, M., Rush, S. E., & Fournier, C. (2015). Mindfulness-based stress reduction for healthy individuals: A meta-analysis. Journal of Psychosomatic Research, 78(6), 519-528.
This worksheet is an educational tool for use by, or under the guidance of, a licensed or registered mental-health professional. It is not a diagnostic instrument or a substitute for clinical judgement. If a client is in crisis in Canada, call or text 9-8-8 or call 9-1-1.
