Mindfulness & Meditation
Mindfulness
When we are mindful, we are most fully alive and awake to ourselves and to the people and the world around us. One of the consequences of the pace of modern life is that we can be drawn all too easily away from simply being in the present moment.
Mindfulness can immeasurably enrich your life. It offers a way of changing the way you perceive the world, yourself and others. It presents a way of being which involves developing objective, non-judgemental awareness of what is happening in your internal and external space – in your thoughts, feelings and physical sensations.
The benefits of a regular mindfulness practice include:
Reduced stress and a greater sense of calm
An enhanced sense of wellbeing
Improved self-esteem and greater confidence
Being less distressed by physical and psychological symptoms
Altered pain levels and an enhanced ability to cope with chronic pain
Better ability to focus and concentrate
Whilst it has its roots in Buddhist meditation, the term as it is used today refers to a series of well-researched techniques focused on becoming more present, aware and grounded.
Meditation
Meditation is an age-old practice which originated around 3000 years ago in Eastern wellness traditions. It is now growing in popularity in the western world for its wide range of physical, mental and emotional benefits. These include:
improved calm, clarity and focus
better sleep
less emotional reactivity and improved emotional stability
reduced pain related to stress
increased positive emotions such as joy and gratitude
improved relationships due to an increase in compassion and empathy.
The greatest benefits of meditation are unlocked through a regular committed practice. Like any muscle, the brain also needs to be trained in order to increase its capacity for attention and awareness.
Short, daily meditations of 10 minutes are enough to grow your brain’s ability to be present in the here and now. This awareness will extend to your everyday activities, helping you feel more connected and present to life.
Classes provide an opportunity to commit to a regular meditation practice each week, to help you gain the skills and confidence to continue this practice in your daily life and to integrate it as part of your routine.
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Introduction to Mindfulness Meditation Techniques (delivered online)
This program will help you develop ten foundational skills to enhance your self-awareness, inner calm, and well-being. You will also learn techniques to better cope with life's challenges. You don't need experience with mindfulness meditation, but those who have practised before and wish to refresh their foundational skills are welcome.
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Free Drop-in Online Mindfulness Meditation Sessions
Led by gifted facilitators, these online sessions run via Zoom provide an oasis of stillness in the day. They are as useful for beginning meditators as for advanced: the regular practice gently adds a new quality and richness to our lives.
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Mindfulness in Schools
The Centre began work with Mindfulness back in 2003, gaining funding from the Big Lottery to support a partnership with HomeStart to run programmes for families living in deprived areas of Hitchin and Stevenage.
