Meditation and Mindfulness-Part 1: Practice

What is meditation really? What happens when we turn within, and focus on the very processes of life? In this module we’ll delve into the many practices and theories of this very old contemplative art. We’ll look at it from both ancient and modern perspectives, incorporating instructions from Indian wisdom traditions and insights from contemporary neuroscience. How might meditation alter our reactivity? How might it rewire neural connections? How can such an internal and private experience re-pattern our social lives? How can these practices be therapeutic? and “For whom might they be therapeutic? We’ll also look at why meditation can be intimidating for some, difficult for many, and perhaps completely inappropriate for others. Throughout our time together, we’ll intersperse dialogue and sharing stories and experiences with practice

These interdisciplinary, non-denominational weekends will introduce the basic playing field and experience of meditation: what it has been in various times and places, and what it can be for different people today. We’ll use practical resources from vipassana, Tibetan, and Vedic/Vedantic orientations, comparing their methods and objectives. We’ll use theoretical resources from cognitive science and neuroscience, as well as clinical psychology and psychoanalysis in order to create individualized therapeutic practices for clients and students. The first weekend will focus on theory and practice and the second weekend will focus on leading meditation. Between the two weekend modules (12 weeks) there are several requirements including: Daily practice, journaling and required readings. Part 2 will be offered in March  11th-13th 2016.

Learning Outcomes
Students will gain in-depth knowledge of the three basic models of mediation: open awareness, focused attention, analytical progression. Applications and contraindications for each.
Studnets will gain an in-depth knowledge of yoga psychology and how it applies to meditation.
• Students will understand “Conversational Method” in meditation: how external communication strategies apply to the internal dialogues of meditation.
• Students will understand and demonstrate the ability to direct “organization of posture” and the contraindications for crossed legs.
• Students will gain knowledge of considerations of timing and dosage and demonstrate the ability to apply timing and dosage based on individual client needs.
• Students will gain familiarity with signs of progress or psychological bypassing and understand when they need to refer a student/client for professional help.
• Students will gain familiarity with constitutional assessment and meditation application.

A deposit is required to hold your spot. Deposits are not refundable. Cancelations up to 30 days prior to the event may be issued a credit with Empowered Yoga to be used towards a different program. Unfortunately we are unable to issue a credit or refund the deposit within 30 days of the event. Certificates of completion may be issued upon the successful completion of the requirements above. Once a certificate is issued students may be eligible to register with the Yoga Alliance as an RYT. For more info, contact us at info@empoweredyoga.ca