Stress Reduction - MBSR

What it is:

The Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) curriculum is a series of nine classes in which you will experience what it means to be mindful.  Being “mindful” is to practice nonjudgmental awareness in the present moment with curiosity and open acceptance.  The practice of mindfulness has been in existence for at least a couple thousand years and in recent years the benefits of that practice have been validated through scientific research.  It is now used in many situations such as everyday stress reduction, pain management, treatment of PTSD, sports, medical treatment, physical and mental therapy. The list of uses is already long and growing every day.

What does it mean to practice mindfulness?  The foundations of mindfulness are based on experiencing awareness of what is going on in the present moment.  In the classes and in the homework, you will do exercises in which the connection between your body and your mind are both made apparent and strengthened.

  • There will be quiet sitting, many times with guidance.
  • There will be listening to descriptions of teachings that have stood the test of time in terms of their benefits.
  • There will be slow walking to further bring your attention to the connection between your body and your mind.
  • There will be body scans in which your awareness of every part of your body is strengthened.
  • We will do mindful movement exercises.
  • You will have the opportunity to share your heartfelt thoughts and questions.

This is definitely meant to be a participatory experience!

Throughout the activities you always have a choice.  Your physical and mental comfort are of utmost importance.  We wish to offer you a safe space in which to experience mindfulness and strengthen your connection to it.

What it is NOT:

While we do not deny the origins of the practice of mindfulness are rooted in Buddhist teachings, the presentation of the teachings is done in a secular manner.  Taking part in this curriculum is NOT a religious experience and is definitely not meant to be in conflict with any religious practice.  You may find it spiritually enlightening.  You may find that through the practice of mindfulness in your daily life, your religious experience may be enhanced.  You’ll be more present.

We do not offer therapy.  However, you may find the experience of taking these classes therapeutic.  You may become aware of not just the connection between your body and your mind but more aware of your thoughts, feelings, and ways your mind has been conditioned to interpret both those internal expressions and the external sensations received from your sense organs.

Why take part in this curriculum?

A major reason for all the current scientific interest in mindfulness is to understand why it is so beneficial in so many ways.  It appears that people in West need proof, current scientific proof, before they are willing to accept a way of thinking, speaking, and acting that is different from their current ways.  Having someone tell you to change so fundamentally would be difficult under any circumstances.  Being verified by current research makes it somewhat easier to take.

If you choose to participate fully in the classes,

  • you will be more aware of what is going on in your life,
  • be able to let go of troubling thoughts,
  • sensing your pain and discomfort in a way that reduces your suffering,
  • be more fully present with others,
  • be more aware of perceptions that are either distorted or not reflective of what is real.

Who is the curriculum for

There really aren’t any restrictions, qualifications, or requirements for taking this MBSR course.  If you have an interest in living your life more fully, reducing your stress level, would enjoy being more present and peaceful with those you love, friends and even with yourself, you will benefit from taking this MBSR course.  If you have a disability, we will make every effort to accommodate you.

When and where will the classes be held

Location: Silverton 50+ Center     When: Thursdays 2 p.m. until 3:30 or 4

                 115 Westfield Street                 April 17,24, May1, 8, 15, 22, June 5 and 12

                 Silverton                                    On May 29th the class will be

                                                                    from 10:30 a.m. until 4 p.m. with a half

                                                                    hour break for lunch from 12:30-1

How much does it cost

There is no fixed fee.  The suggested donation for Silverton 50+ Center members is $130.  For non-members the suggested donation is $150.

Refund Policy

If you need to withdraw from the course, depending on where in the series of classes this happens, you may receive a refund of part of your original donation.

Up until the completion of the 5th class the refund will be 50% of the original donation.  After the 6th class, the refund will be 30%.  After the 6th class there will be no refund.

HOW TO TAKE THIS MBSR COURSE

  1. Click on the button below to display the Request Registration Form
  2. Fill in the Request Registration Form
  3. Click on the SUBMIT button on the Form
  4. Within 24 to 48 hours you will receive a response indicating whether or not you are one of the first people 10 to request registration.
  5. If you are one of the 1st 10: Send your donation via Venmo or personal check made out to Compassion Presence Mindful Community sent to:

                          David Steinberg

                          205 Walnut Ave

                          Silverton, OR 97381

          Once your request and your donation have been received you will notified

of your successful registration.

  1. If you are not in the 1st 10: Subsequent courses will be scheduled with dates to be determined.

QUESTIONS or CONCERNS

If you have any questions or concerns about this course, you may use the Get In Touch button at the top right of this page.

Click Here To Request Registration