
Experiential Mindfulness Course 4 March – 15 April
March 4 @ 6:30 pm - April 15 @ 8:30 pm
$750
A 6- session experiential mindfulness course facilitated by Vera Hey
“Mindfulness is a way to live life as if each moment counted and could be a valuable experience even if it is a moment of pain, sadness, despair or fear.” John Kabat-Zinn
Modern life can be a whirlwind of activities and demands, leaving many feeling trapped in a cycle of stress and relentless busyness. This constant rush from one task to another often leads to living on auto-pilot, where emotions and habitual behaviours take the reins, and we struggle to find moments of genuine peace. The pressure to juggle various responsibilities can result in a mental tug-of-war, as we work tirelessly to suppress intrusive thoughts and maintain a semblance of control.
As human beings, we all experience states of frustration, anxiety, fear, anger, powerlessness, etc. We often don’t know how we end up in these states, what is causing them and what to do about them, but we know too well that living like that is painful.
Understanding and practising mindfulness enables one to have awareness of one’s inner world: thoughts, feelings, emotions, physical sensations, mind states etc. and thus have an understanding of why one feels and behaves the way one does, giving one a better sense of being in control. We start realizing that we do not have to depend on external circumstances to be OK and at peace.
Mindfulness is a faculty that anyone can develop: it is the art of using simple methods to calm and stabilize our minds bringing about a natural sense of peace and well-being that can extend to every aspect of our lives.
This experiential course offers a blend of theoretical exploration and practical application, designed to deepen your understanding. Discussions will play a pivotal role, allowing participants to share insights and learn from each other’s experiences. Reflection is also a key component, encouraging you to critically assess your progress and understanding.
Additionally, for those interested in further enrichment, an optional urban retreat provides a chance to immerse yourself in a focused setting, enhancing the overall learning experience. This course is perfect for those looking to explore Mindfulness in depth while gaining hands-on experience.
This course is based on the work of Rob Nairn, an internationally recognized leader in mindfulness teaching and training, and the author of international bestsellers Tranquil Mind, Diamond Mind, Living Dreaming Dying, and From Mindfulness to Insight. Also referenced are the works of Jon Kabat-Zinn, Jack Cornfield, Christine Neff, Thich Nhat Hanh and many others.
Topics to be covered:
- Becoming aware of the current state of your mind.
- Becoming aware of how present you are. Self-compassion.
- Exploring basics of mindfulness practice and mindfulness support: sound, breath.
- Working with distraction.
- Introduction to observer/undercurrent model.
- Cultivating an attitude of self-acceptance.
- Working with difficult thoughts and emotions that are currently present.
- Quality living: mindfulness acceptance and serenity in daily life
Dates:
- Tuesday 4th March 2025 – Free Introduction
- Thereafter Tuesdays 11th March to 15th April 2025
Time:
- 6:30 PM for 7:00 to 8:30 PM. Join us for tea before the start of each session.
Optional Urban Retreat:
- The date for the Urban Retreat will be discussed with participants.
Cost:
- R 600 if paid in full by Tuesday 4th March
- R750 full cost
- R600 Members/Pensioners/Students
- If you would like to attend but cannot afford the fee, please contact us for options. Don’t let a lack of finance prevent you from attending.
To reserve your spot:
Email: johannesburg@kagyu.org.za
WhatsApp: +27 62 913 4436
About the facilitator:
Vera Hey has an Honours degree in Psychology and has been working in the field for the past fifteen years. She has been a student of Rob Nairn since 2008, and during this time she attended most of the trainings offered by him and attended a number of retreats including ten day silent retreats. She also completed a four year mindfulness facilitators training program which ran under the supervision of Rob Nairn, as well as a mindfulness facilitators training course, offered by Rob in 2018.