You’re welcome to come into the studio and make yourself comfortable either in one of the chairs or on your own meditation cushion. You’re even welcome to sit against a wall or lay down – many of our members do.
You are welcome to come as you are. We only ask that your clothing be modest and appropriate.
Typically, the first 30 to 45 minutes is reserved for guided mindfulness meditation practice followed by a time for sharing and Q&A. Time permitting, the facilitator gives a brief talk on that week's mindfulness topic and the session wraps up with discussion and Q&A.
When you first arrive, it is requested that you remove your shoes before entering the studio. You’re welcome to come into the studio and make yourself comfortable either in one of the chairs or on your own meditation cushion. You’re even welcome to sit against a wall or lay down – many of our members do.
We don’t usually get started until about 5 minutes past the hour to make an allowance for late-comers. A few of the factors which make the programs unique include:
1. The techniques in these programs are based on sound scientific research, including studies conducted by leading universities. 2. We’ll focus on integrating the different dimensions of mind-body experience, and help you understand how the mind and body interact under stress and in personal relationships. 3. Unlike many meditation programs, the techniques we’ll cover are secular and accessible to everyone. Mindfulness is not about “zoning out.” Our continual stream of thought seldom stops. However, with practice, we slow down our thinking and become less attached to our personal thoughts and stories. Mindfulness is not about sedation; it’s about waking up.
No. While mindfulness meditation has its roots in Eastern traditions like Buddhism and yoga, it is a purely Western approach to meditation and has been adapted specifically for use in a secular context. Mindfulness training is open to people of all religious (or non-religious) inclinations.
Absolutely. Some of the programs include 'mindful movement' exercises based on yoga. However the movements are gentle and always adaptable to your particular abilities, health issues and injuries.
The programs are aimed at people who would like to find ways of coping with stress and anxiety, and/or increasing general well-being. It presumes a basic level of mental health as a starting point. If you have serious mental health problems, such as current severe depression, it is probably not the right course for you at this time. Please contact us to discuss your particular situation.
Research studies have demonstrated that ongoing Mindfulness practice can enrich our lives and relieve many forms of emotional and physical distress. Details of specific research findings are available on our What is Mindfulness Meditation or Headlines pages.
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