Are you curious about an MBSR course, Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction?
Mindfulness is everywhere now, we read and hear about it everywhere we go. No wonder, the benefits of mindfulness can include decreased stress, enhanced ability to deal with illness, facilitation of recovery, decreased depressive symptoms, improved general health and well-being, improved communication, the list goes on. However, there are instances where Mindfulness might not suit someone. Are you interested in exploring the possibility that mindfulness might be a helpful practice to incorporate into your life?
The 8-week MBSR course is an immersive deep-dive into the foundations and applications of mindfulness, and it’s role in stress reduction and in living a rich, full, meaningful life.
The MBSR course began in a University Hospital in Massachusetts in the early 80’s led by Jon Kabat Zinn. Positive changes could be seen in patients having done the course, this first one was to assist with pain relief. These changes could be proven by science which lead to an explosion in both the study and the application of mindfulness; continued growth in this field is ongoing.
To discover and experience mindfulness an intense immersion over 8 weeks is recommended. One class, once a week, of 2.5 hours, and home practice of 35-45 minutes a day, six days out of seven. One day-long retreat in the middle. Studies show this can enduring change on the brain and the brain’s patterns. These changes can persist beyond the 8-week course for those who continue with their practice.
The sessions are interesting, rich with practices and discussion, mostly done seated in chairs. There is a lot of emphasis on actually practicing together… seated meditations, lying down guided body scans and mindful movement (similar to gentle yoga). Home practice is a key part. Together with the teacher, before you sign up for the course, you decide if it is a good fit for you and the right time in your life to undertake such a commitment.
It’s a good idea to find a time, a location and a teacher that suits you. A google search should bring up options in your area. Typically an 8-week course costs in the region of €350.
Sylvia will be teaching the next MBSR in January 2023 in Mutton Lane Yoga Studio, Tibradden, Dublin 16. 9.30am - 12.30pm for 8 weeks from Wednesday 18th January. A €50 deposit secures your place. Balance of €300 is payable by December 1st. The last course booked out with a waiting list, places are extremely limited, please enquire early by sending an email sylviayoga@gmail.com or text 0876822362.
Some comments from previous course participants:
“I really enjoyed the whole course, Sylvia is a really engaging teacher. I learnt so much about myself.”
“I feel so much more aware of my mood and my energy levels since doing the course.”
“Highly recommend for stress reduction, my sleep has also improved”.