Frequently Asked Questions
Who is mindfulness for?
We've taught men and women aged 18 to 85 of various religions and nationalities. They've been actors, teachers, lawyers, psychologists, business people, graphic designers, and physiotherapists. Others were studying, unemployed, on disability or retired. A few have come specifically to learn to meditate, and many have come to learn how to deal more effectively with daily stress and life challenges: burnout, eating difficulties, low mood, or generalised anxiety, or chronic pain. Some have been referred by a doctor or psychologist; others have come at the suggestion of a friend or colleague.
Can you tell me any more about the class in the group courses?
By the end of the course, most people know everyone’s first name and there is great support amongst participants - but no-one is required to share anything in particular. Time constraints and the nature of the course means that we don't talk about current personal difficulties, but rather simply our present-moment experience.
How big are the group classes?
This depends on the venue’s room size, but the classes usually have a minimum of eight and a maximum of fourteen participants.
I don’t think I could learn to meditate - my mind wanders all the time.
It's the nature of the mind to wander. Mindfulness is not about trying to stop your thoughts or empty your mind. It's about noticing when your mind wanders, and then gently, without judgement, coming back to focus on whatever you've chosen to attend to.
Do I have to sit still to meditate?
Participants are invited to experiment with adopting an upright, comfortable posture, and various ways of doing this are demonstrated. However, whilst there is often benefit in sticking to a particular position for some time, being kind to ourselves and our bodies is central to this work. Everyone is encouraged to listen to their body and make their own decisions about how to position themselves.
What are the religious connotations around mindfulness?
Mindfulness is found in many contemplative and spiritual traditions, but has been most extensively developed in Buddhism. Nevertheless, it stands on its own as a powerful vehicle for self-understanding and healing, and the courses that we run are deliberately secular.
Is the training for beginners or for experienced meditators?
The Introduction to Mindfulness and A Taste of Mindfulness are suitable for those with no experience of meditation. This is the same for The Mindfulness Course, although on occasion we've taken experienced meditators through it and they say they've found it very beneficial.