What is this mindfulness course for?
The Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction Course is an 8-week program run in countries around the globe and specifically designed to transform- on an embodied level- the way we respond to stress. Through bringing together knowledge and practice from both eastern and western traditions, this unique and evidence-based course offers a structured and supportive path for integrating greater balance, ease, meaning and direction into our everyday lives.
In this course you will explore:
- stress physiology and how to work with it
- interrupting loops of stress reactivity in daily life
- how to use time more effectively
- interrupting patterns of self-criticism and negative thinking
- reflecting on challenges with greater clarity and perspective
- developing decision-making skills
- exploring softening towards ourselves and others
- finding your own centre in the face of challenges
What is involved?
When you sign up for the MBSR course you will begin with an individual phone session with your teacher in order to better understand your
interest in the program and clarify how your practice might be best supported. Once we begin, the 8-week course involves:
- weekly 2.5 hour group classes and a one day silent retreat
- hatha yoga and body awareness training
- theory delivered in class lectures and extra inspirations to support your practice
- one-on-one guidance and support from your teacher
- an app with guided audio and coursebook to support your learning
- inclusion into a diverse community of practitioners and access to ongoing resources, events and the latest findings on mindfulness and neuroscience
In addition to these elements, the MBSR course also demands a willingness and motivation to engage fully in the practice. Like other types of training, mindfulness can only become rooted in our own being and lives when we engage it, practicing and returning to it regularly. Therefore, the capacity and commitment to undertaking the daily homework is fundamental to this course.
What does mindfulness do?
According to the 40-year body of research associated specifically with this course, engaging in regular mindfulness practice:
- fosters a greater sense of ease, satisfaction, joy and connection in life
- interrupts patterns of stress reactivity
- cultivates lasting inner resources of restorative equilibrium
- improves sleep, overall health and immune function
- decreases the physical and psychological symptoms of stress in ways that last
- increases energy and productivity
- increases focus, concentration and the capacity for creative problem solving
Practicing Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) can significantly improve chronic pain management compared to usual treatments. Research has shown that those who take part in MBSR often experience better mental health, with reductions in symptoms of anxiety, depression, and PTSD. Additionally, eight-week mindfulness programs can enhance cognitive and emotional well-being by improving attention-related capabilities (such as sustained attention and working memory) and decreasing rumination.
Pricing and Scholarship places
- Standard Rate $695
- And we are delighted to offer discounted places for those who need financial support to come along.
If you have access to some financial security: that is, have a job, have some assets (savings, shares, property) and/or superannuation income we ask you to pay your way (with a payment plan if needed).
If you are in financial need: unemployed, on a disability pension, have an illness, or are a student (with no support from parents) please be in touch to get a scholarship place.
Karen is passionate about bringing mindfulness into the world and draws on her long experience with people in the corporate, small business and not-for-profit sectors in her MBSR teaching. She brings vitality, curiosity and caring to her classes and has the skills to enthuse and support people in their mindfulness training. Karen has practiced meditation and yoga for over 20 years and is qualified as an MBSR teacher with the Mindfulness Training Institute. She is strongly committed to helping others in finding the most relevant way for them to integrate mindfulness into their personal and professional lives and draws inspiration from the transformations she sees in each person as they begin their own mindfulness practice.
