Introduction to Mindfulness:  

Living Fully Present 

Program Description: 

This weekly introductory mindfulness program is designed to help reduce stress through a variety of guided practices, self-reflection exercises, short lectures, and group discussions. You will learn to use focused attention to tune into your body, calm the mind, self-regulate the nervous system, and establish a deeper connection with yourself. Each participant will develop a home-based practice (5-20 minutes daily) with support from class and available recordings. The course meets the needs of both beginners and experienced practitioners, allowing participants to move at their own pace and comfort level. Classes will be held in person, and we ask that you commit to attending all four sessions to the best of your ability. All are welcome and encouraged to join! 

Learning Outcomes:

• What mindfulness is, and what it isn't

• How to practice mindfulness meditation

• Proper meditation postures and techniques

• Learning to develop focused attention 

• Mindfulness attitudes including self-compassion, acceptance, non-judgement, and non-striving

• Calming & stress reduction strategies

• How patterns and habits develop in our brains

• Self-care and how to best support our practice / lives

• Suggestions & options for next steps in moving forward

Class Structure:

• 4 total classes

• Class meets 1x / week for 4 weeks

• Each class is 1.5 hours long

• 6 hours of total class instruction time (approximate)

• Guided recordings for at home practice provided

• Online resource materials

• Open to all experience levels

Class Notes:

• Attend in any attire (comfortable clothing encouraged) 

• Participants will be mostly sitting during class.  All activities can be adapted to your own comfort level and ability.

• Participants should bring water, pen, & notebook. (Optional: small blanket, personal cushion, yoga mat, etc.)

Potential Benefits of Mindfulness

•  Reduce stress, anxiety, & depression

•  Improve physical health & well-being

•  Improve cognition & mental stamina

•  Improve awareness & emotional state

•  Increased attention & creativity

•  Increased job satisfaction & enhanced performance

•  Increased sense of connection to self and others