COURSES/
OPENING
TO LIFE

In this first session we explore the nature of suffering, how it manifests in our world today and for us in our daily life; understanding the power of mindfulness as a support to meet this suffering and awaken to our innate wisdom. We chart the four aspects of a practice, and together commit to our own individual goals.

Here, we dive into the fascinating world of emotions as a universal human experience. We learn about the power of self-compassion and the nature of impermanence. We explore RAIN as a supportive tool to be with emotions, and begin to discover other skillful strategies to meet difficult emotions.

In this session, we contemplate on the heart; the source of all wisdom. By delving into its diverse manifestations; love, compassion, joy, and equanimity, we explore ways to integrate these practices into our daily life, as a way to further expand our awareness; much like a flower in full blossom, radiating beauty.

This session builds from the first week, deepening our understanding of mindfulness by learning about the body's role to living life more fully. We further explore the natural wisdom hidden within our bodies, as part of the living systems of the Earth, and learn about the mind/body relationship.

This session explores the nature of thoughts and beliefs. We look at the mind as a sense organ with its own limitations and patterns. We further learn about the different types of thoughts and how to relate to them, exploring how certain thoughts cause suffering and others, more wholesome states of awareness.

In this concluding session we reflect on our journey together; unpacking learnings and sharing insights with eachother. We discuss ways in which we can continue to hold our practice and invoke mindful living.