Mindfulness Course FAQs

What is this Mindfulness stuff all about?

Mindfulness expert-teacher Jon Kabat-Zinn describes Mindfulness as: “Awareness that arises through paying attention, on purpose, in the present moment, non-judgementally.”

 Thich Nhat Hanh describes it as "Keeping one’s consciousness alive to the present reality."

Central to Mindfulness practice is meditation, which helps us to enhance awareness of our inner and outer environment encompassing thoughts, feelings, bodily sensations, surrounding environment.

How is course structured?

This is an entry level Mindfulness course that contains some of the common elements from different disciplines of Mindfulness.  It is practiced over 8 weeks for 2-hours per week, plus home practice. This is not a Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy course (MBCT) nor a Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) course, though many of elements are universal to all practices. MBCT is an adaptation of MBSR and has the same basic 8-week structure. UMASS Centre for Mindfulness describes the key difference between MBCT and MBSR: “MBCT is an explicit focus on turning toward low mood and negative thoughts early in the program so that participants gain experience with recognizing these symptoms and confidence in their ability to respond skilfully.” See a longer explanation on the differences by following this link.  https://bit.ly/2qMKcbd.

What is the criteria for the course?

There are no pre-requisites for who can attend, and it is perfect for those new to Mindfulness and looking to learn to meditate. However, if you are experiencing depression or acute stress then the timing may not be right start.  If you are suffering from one of these or any other mental health condition, please contact me prior to registering so we can determine if this is the best time for you to start. Finally, all that is asked is that you come with an open mind and that you are ready to engage meaningfully with the experience.

Do I need to do anything before I attend?

There is no significant preparation involved other than to complete the brief questionnaire, which you will be sent to complete at the end of the registration process. This is simply so I am aware of any issues and communicate with you if necessary. The questionnaire can be accessed through the following link https://bit.ly/34kR6mL

How many other people will be on the 8-Week Course?

The group size can vary and could be fewer than 10 but not more than 20.

I don’t like speaking in public, do I really have to participate in discussion?

Attendees will be encouraged to talk but no one is ever forced to. You always welcome to speak to the facilitator individually to discuss any issues.

Will there be homework?

Yes. You will be invited to do up 45 minutes of home practice each day between sessions. The key is to start applying Mindfulness to everyday life. If on the odd occasion you are not able to do the homework, then bringing awareness to actions, thoughts associated emotions would be ideal instead.

What resources do I need?

You will need a notebook and pen for journaling throughout the course. You will be provided links to guided meditations for home practice. You are welcome to bring your own mat, blanket and cushion if desired but one will be provided for you. You are encouraged to bring an additional cushion if you feel you need more support.

Is there a dress code?

Please dress comfortably, and wear clothing suitable for doing exercises that involve body-scan practice lying on a yoga mat or mindful movement practice. Skirts and revealing clothes will not be ideal for this. People are also asked to remove their shoes before they go into the room, so you may just want to ensure you have comfortable socks with you. You do not need to wear anything special, but you may want to avoid clothes that restrict your movement, (e.g. suits) or revealing items (e.g. skirts or dresses).

Do you offer concessions?

Yes. Please contact me to discussion your individual situation.

What if I miss a day?

Ideally not. But if an urgent unplanned event crops up, one or two of the sessions mid-way would be permissible. Any more than that would not be conducive to learning.

I’ve booked a place, but I can no longer attend – can I get a refund?

Yes, if the cancellation is requested at least 7 days before the first session. No refunds are offered for cancellations less than 7 days prior to the first session or after the course has begun.

If there is something you’d like to know that isn’t answered here, please do get in touch via the contact page.