‘Mindfulness for Life’ Course

Why Participate?

If you’re like most people, you probably spend a lot of time thinking about what’s NOT happening in the present moment: that is, dwelling on the past, or worrying about the future. You are not alone, as this type of ‘mind-wandering’ is considered to be the brain’s default mode. However, excessive mind-wandering has been found to be a bigger predictor of unhappiness than how a person actually spends their time!

 

Mindfulness is an effective way to combat this mind-wandering, by consciously bringing our attention into the present moment. Mindfulness is a skill that can be learnt and strengthened through both formal (meditation) and informal (mindfulness activities) practice; the ‘Mindfulness for Life’ course includes both of these types of mindfulness practice.

The ‘Mindfulness for Life’ Course

The ‘Mindfulness for Life’ course is a 6 week face-to-face group program designed to teach participants the psychological skill of mindfulness. The course has a strong emphasis on teaching the practical applications of mindfulness, hence ‘Mindfulness for Life’. The course does this through a variety of experiential activities, guided meditation, group discussion, weekly reading and homework tasks.

The Benefits of Mindfulness

Mindfulness is a state of being fully present, aware and conscious of where we are and what we are doing, without being reactive or overwhelmed by what’s going on around us, or within us. To learn more about what mindfulness is click here.

 

Scientific research has shown that practicing mindfulness, even for just a few weeks, can bring a variety of physical, psychological, and social benefits. Here are some of these benefits:

Reduced

  • Stress
  • Worry and rumination
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Focus on the negative
  • Physical health complaints (various)
  • Slowed ageing

Enhanced

  • Concentration and attention span
  • Positive emotions and optimism
  • Life satisfaction
  • Emotional awareness
  • Sleep quality
  • Better decision-making
  • Self-esteem
For a full review of the psychological, physical health, neurological and behavioural benefits of mindfulness meditation click here.

Course Details

  • Start Date: Wednesday 26th of April, 2023
  • Course Structure: 6 x 2 hour sessions (consecutive weeks), running from 6.30pm – 8.30pm
  • Where? 232 Lennox St, Richmond. Click here for a map of the location.

Past Participants Comments:

“This course taught me to calm my mind. I have learnt multiple techniques on how to manage my thoughts and ultimately my reactions and actions by incorporating mindfulness into my everyday life.”

“The program was facilitated in an easy, calm and respectful manner, and helped me to feel relaxed and comfortable.”

“I took something new on board each week, that I was able to apply in my everyday life”

“The facilitator was great. They were positive, and encouraged people to share experiences in a non-judgemental way”

“I have been able to practise the skills I learnt here at stages of my day, which has helped me to be more aware of my thoughts and feelings and how they are just thoughts, they are not right or wrong, they just are… it has helped to take some of the pain out of my emotions.”

“I feel the benefits from this course will continue to grow and develop after the course”

Cost

Full course fee:

Price includes learning materials, guided Mindfulness Meditation CD, and Practice Journal.

$490.00

$82.00 per 2 hour class

Out of pocket after Medicare rebate:

Medicare rebate of $254.10 accessible with current mental health care plan from GP.

* Please note, the Medicare rebate is claimed after the service has been delivered. 

$235.90

$42.35 per 2 hour class

Concession rate:

Concession rates are available for health care card holders

 Please call to discuss concession pricing

Private health:

Rebate may be available through private health insurance.

 Please call your private health provider to enquire

*Please be advised that course fees are nonrefundable