Caregivers understand the importance of creating a holding environment in which people can safely explore their inner lives. Similarly, our own mindfulness practice will benefit if we can establish an internal container that is akin to the safe external environment we offer to others. Throughout this course we will study and practice setting up the internal structures conducive for making progress in mindfulness meditation. We will offer many instructions and guided meditations designed to create a personally meaningful and enriching environment in which mindfulness practice can flourish. During our mostly silent time together, group discussions and mindful communication exercises will be offered. Apart from these exercises, silence will be observed, including during meal times, in order to facilitate a deeper contemplative experience. Mornings and evenings are devoted to guided sitting and walking meditation.
Learning Intentions:
To utilize mindfulness and concentration practices in the service of being present and deepening therapeutic presence; be able to identify and establish the essential components of the holding environment for mindfulness meditation practice; demonstrate how to set up mindfulness practice in all four postures (sitting, standing, lying down, and walking); utilize compassion practices to enhance empathic attunement; and learn techniques for working with unwholesome mind states.
