8 of the Best Videos on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): Mindfulness in Action

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Here’s my favourite videos teaching the principles of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) which is an evidence-based mindful therapy and training for all.

The approach is a paradigm shift to most other therapies as the aim is not symptom reduction, and even challenges your ideas of what happiness means.

Enjoy these videos and let me know if you have any other recommendations.

Passengers on a Bus Metaphor

A great short summary of the whole approach to ACT in the form of a bus ride.

This is one of the most popular metaphors in ACT. In this video, imagine you are the bus driver, navigating your life's journey.

Your passengers are your thoughts and feelings, each with their own personality. Some are joyous, others worrisome, sad or angry, many are in-between.

You don't control who gets on or where they want to go. They may distract, even discourage, but you are not them.

You can hear them, observe them, but keep driving.

The key is to acknowledge their presence without letting them take the wheel. The video finishes with you following your values despite what the passengers say.

Psychological Flexibility

A moving TEDx talk by Steven Hayes, the originator of ACT sharing a very personal example from his life. A story that helped to start research into ACT.

In this inspiring talk, he delves into the concept of psychological flexibility. Hayes passionately articulates how this trait, this ability to adapt to varying situations, holds the key to mental well-being.

He highlights the importance of staying open to our emotions, whether pleasant or unpleasant, and emphasizes that we should not strive to avoid them. Instead, he proposes we accept these feelings as part of our existence and move forward, committing to actions aligned with our values.

Hayes' talk is an eye-opener, illustrating the power of psychological flexibility in transforming our lives. It's a must-watch for everyone seeking emotional resilience and fulfillment.

The Struggle Switch

A great little animation by Russ Harris showing the futility of struggling with unhelpful emotions.

3 Myths of Happiness

Another great video from Russ Harris which I found very powerful when I saw it. Clarifies the importance of defining happiness and the potential danger of making feeling good into a goal in life.


Here Comes a Thought

A brilliant song based on ACT, watched over 30 million times across the net! Helps you to see that are thought is ultimately, just a thought.

Tug of War Metaphor

Lovely little animation by ACT Auntie showing a popular metaphor in ACT. The problem with having a tug of war with unhelpful thoughts, and a great solution.


What are Values

Here’s a video on the difference between values and goals, and giving you some ideas of values you can cultivate in your life.


The Guest House

A beautiful poem by Rumi translated by Coleman Barks you may have heard that sums up the whole ACT and mindfulness approach.

Bonus Videos on ACT that I’ve Created



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