(8-Week Mindfulness for Health & Happiness Course)

“I would recommend this course to anyone who is ready to look at themselves with an open mind. The approach is gentle, kind-hearted and non-dogmatic. You’re not being asked to believe anything –just to try it and see for yourself what it can do. It’s not self-centred – I’d say it encourages an attitude that’s kind to others as well as to yourself.

I’d had some previous experience of meditation and could recognise its value. This was the first time I’d done a structured course. Doing this, with the gentle self-discipline it encouraged, I was able to really experience the benefits of the Mindfulness approach, as well as acknowledge them intellectually. Before I started I had a few unhelpful tendencies – like getting irritated about my own and others’ shortcomings and getting overwhelmed with things I had to do (while not getting on and doing them).

At the end of the course I still have these tendencies, but (at least most of the time) I quickly notice them for what they are, recognising that I have a choice about how to react to whatever situation I find myself in. I generally feel I know myself better and am more in control of my life. I’m also better able to appreciate what’s around me in the present moment (including other people) - and more inclined to smile.

I liked that it was fairly challenging but with a discipline that resisted harshness. There was a kindness and good humour to it all.

I recognised too that this isn’t a once and for all fix. The benefits can dwindle if the practice is neglected.”