Learn Mindfulness

Unlike many approaches to difficulties, mindfulness is not centrally concerned with tackling problems head on in an effort to change them. Instead mindfulness practice invites us to relate to our experience in a very different kind of way. By developing our capacity to become more aware of the various aspects of what’s going on with us, we can become less reactive and more able to make aware choices about how we respond to life’s events.

When we experience a difficult event, it often triggers negative patterns from the past that affect our mood further, setting up self-sustaining cycles that can be difficult to break. During the sessions we will be learning mindfulness skills that enable us to make alternative responses to our automatic patterns of thinking and feeling. This can give more choice in the face of being triggered by difficulties and also in relating more consciously to our lives in general.

These skills are taught by a combination of meditation practices that train us to consciously focus our attention where we choose, together with taught cognitive skills and discussion. Please don’t worry if you are not accustomed to meditation practice. No former experience or knowledge is needed: in fact, “beginner’s mind” is one of the most helpful qualities you can bring. 

You won’t be asked to talk in depth about any challenges that you might have, but rather will focus on learning to notice and then develop the ability to exercise choice in relation to habitual, often automatic, reactions to events, thoughts, feelings and sensations.