What if I cannot attend a class?
In order to benefit from the course, and get the certification of completion, attendance is crucial for your own practice and to support the group. We ask that participants make an effort to attend all classes. At the same time, we understand that there will be things in life that will make it impossible to attend. The modules are developed to build on the previous one, so it is important to have the proper flow. It is suggested that you not take the course if you think you will miss more than one class. Please contact the course director in any case if you are unable to attend a class at-casinos.com.
If I have additional questions, whom do I contact?
There are multiple ways in contacting the course leader via social media, WhatsApp group and email. You can email directly at buddhismguide@yahoo.com or bodhicitta.chd@gmail.com
How much time will I need to devote to the course?
The course duration is for 7 weeks with a 2 hour class held once a week. In addition to the 14 hour teaching, you are required to practice daily for 15 -20 mins twice a day at least, or a total of 30 -45 mins in a day. This may be the most difficult hurdle you face in getting started because finding additional time separate from daily chores may be a challenge. However, previous participants tell us that they experience more space and time, even in the middle of a busy day.
What is the importance of practice?
This course is highly experiential and the daily practice is perhaps the most important component of the course. Mindful awareness is a practice, and like any ability that involves the harmony of body and mind, it needs regular training and exercise to hone the skill. It takes time and practice to use awareness in daily life effectively, for which practice and reflection are important.
What will I learn from the course?
-Guided mindful meditation
-Breathing awareness techniques
-Mindful movement practices
-An exploration of the effects of stress on the body and mind
-Learning tools for applying mindfulness in everyday life
-Opportunities to discuss what has been experienced in the class and in home practice.
-Breathing awareness techniques
-Mindful movement practices
-An exploration of the effects of stress on the body and mind
-Learning tools for applying mindfulness in everyday life
-Opportunities to discuss what has been experienced in the class and in home practice.
Are there videos that I can watch?
Please visit www.buddhismguide.org for more details
What is your refund policy?
Refunds requested two weeks or more before a course starts will be assessed with a $25 administrative fee. We regret that we cannot give refunds after this date. Refunds should be requested by email to bodhicitta.chd@ gmail.com Credit towards another course can be requested by email till one week before course commences.
Will I meditate outside the course?
Yes, participants are asked to meditate or reflect 30 minutes or more six days per week. You will be given guided meditations for this purpose. Logs of home practices should be kept and submitted weekly. Participants will also be given “informal meditation” exercises that will assist in integrating mindfulness in everyday life.
Why is the course duration 7 weeks?
This 7 week Mindful Awareness Course is based on a systematic training in mindfulness with a focus on training and experience. Each module has been designed to lead to the next using both analytical and practical skills. The instructions and guidance given weekly to participants must be built upon gradually through daily self practice, reading, guided meditation and reflection for at least 6 days per module .
Is the course religious or related to Buddhism?
The course is based on a secular training program which integrates traditional Buddhist teachings and practices with western science and psychology. The aim is to Increase attention, compassion, self awareness and personal experience through insight meditation and observation.
How many people will there be on the course?
There are a maximum of 25 students per class.
Does the course have age restrictions?
The course is open to all adults 18 years and above who wish to practice meditation and are willing to make a commitment to a daily practice. Children and teenagers would be included in separate groups.
Does it have any negative side effects?
It can. Mindfulness practices often increase clarity and depth of emotions, especially those that have been lingering beneath the surface of consciousness. This can sometimes lead to an increase in certain types of distress. This effect appears to be most common in those who have experienced traumatic stress. Please inform the course director if you have any concerns.
Who should not do this course?
The course is not appropriate if you are actively suicidal, in addiction or early recovery (first 90 days), or have recently experienced a major life trauma. Please contact the course director if you have any doubts.
I suffer from anxiety, can I do this course?
Yes, mindfulness interventions have been shown to alleviate symptoms of anxiety for many individuals. The regular practice with weekly guidance allows teaches us how to respond to stress with awareness of what is happening in the present moment, rather than simply acting instinctively, unaware of what emotions or motives may be driving that decision. By teaching awareness for one’s physical and mental state in the moment, mindfulness allows for more adaptive reactions to difficult situations.
I am not stressed/in pain/ have a chronic disease, but would like to learn meditation, should I do this course?
Absolutely. You do not need to have a chronic condition to benefit from this practice. Anyone who would like to learn meditation or practice mindful awareness skills is welcome.