Mindfulness meditation has its origins in the 2,600-year-old Buddhist Tradition. In recent years it has been extensively studied, and current science supports the benefit of mindfulness for a wide range of physical and mental health conditions. Research shows mindfulness can reduce stress; reduce chronic physical pain; boost the immune system; reduce emotional reactivity; increase self-awareness; improve attention and concentration; enhance positive emotions; cultivate well-being; and positively impact the brain.

This course will explore the principles of mindfulness for the purpose of establishing, or deepening, a personal meditation practice, and applying these principles to daily life. Our approach to mindfulness practice will follow the Vipassana (or Insight Meditation) tradition, and the Buddha’s original teaching on the topic, The Discourse on Establishing Mindfulness. Individuals will gain an understanding of mindfulness of breathing, of the body, of emotions, of thoughts and of the mind itself; obstacles to mindfulness; working with difficult emotions, thoughts, and circumstances; and cultivating positive emotions and gratitude.

Each class will be a combination of lecture, guided practice, video or audio presentation, and group discussion. Participants will be given home assignments for the purpose of developing a daily meditation practice, as well as strategies to enhance the continuity of mindfulness in daily life.