A Medley of Mindfulness Meditations

If you’ve been wondering whether mindfulness might be worth exploring but aren’t quite sure, this might be just what you’re looking for: a light, informal class for beginners, for those who’d like to try new practices or approaches, and for those who’d like to return to their mindfulness practice.

What are the aims of the course?

The course will introduce mindfulness by exploring a range of practices that help us

• slow down and become present through awareness of the body;
• become focused, attentive and calm through a breath-based practice;
• build resilience through kindness and compassion;
• remain steady and centred by using visualisation; and
• know how to stay connected to mindful living by drawing upon brief practices whilst we go about our daily life.

Whether longer and more formal, or a micro-meditation you might do whilst queuing at the shops, each brings its own particular benefits. It may be that you are drawn to one that becomes your primary practice, or that you just get an overall sense of how mindfulness in general could become a useful approach in your life.

What are the classes like?

The class will be small, informal and practical. Guided meditations will be followed by discussion about what you noticed and how your insights might be applied in everyday life. A little background information will be provided, though the focus will be on you being the expert of your own experience.

You won’t need to sit in uncomfortable positions, keep your eyes closed or adopt any beliefs whatsoever: Instead you’ll be asked to take care of yourself, adapt a practice if you need to (suggestions for how you might do that can be given), and see for yourself whether this might be something which could be helpful to you.

I’ve taken an intro course (or even a more intensive one) before. Why would take this one?

1. The intensiveness and level of commitment required from participants is different:

• Previous courses have often required a good degree of commitment from the participants (e.g. committing to at least half an hour of meditation every day) and are not recommended for times when we’re under enormous strain.
• This course is light, open to all, and has shorter sessions. It’s specifically for those leading busy lives and/or who are less certain they want to commit to daily meditation, who’re looking to refresh their practice, or who’d like to return to meditation in a way which feels doable. This course is also different from previous ones because, whilst you can meditate at home if you wish, there is no set homework.

2. The means of introducing mindfulness is different:

• Previous courses have often focused on a small number of meditations which are repeated throughout the course.
• This course provides an overview through offering a wide variety of meditations. Many people discover one they really love, and this becomes their primary practice they draw on for the rest of their life.

3. The structure is different:

• Previous courses have usually encouraged strong attendance because the classes build upon each other.
• This course encourages high attendance, but the sessions are standalone. If you miss a class due to illness, you can return to the course without having missed something foundational to the other classes.

4. The content is different:

• Previous introductory courses have provided definitions of what mindfulness is, what it isn’t, a background to the historical context, the science and application of mindfulness.
• This course is more practical, with a selection of meditation practices that each help us cultivate particular strengths and qualities.

What are the course dates?

The five classes will run on Thursday evenings on 11, 18, 25 August and 8, 15 September. Please note: no class 1 September.

Where can I get further info?

A confirmation email with further details will be sent to you after you’ve booked. As always you’re welcome to contact me if you have questions, are experiencing financial hardship, or want to find out about other classes – hello@cathgrey.com. Hope to be meeting you or seeing you again soon!