Mindfulness Meditation Introductory Course

This is a basic introductory course to Mindfulness Meditation. All sessions will be led by Rev. Dr. Ute Molitor who is about to graduate from the Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Training Program taught by Tara Brach and Jack Kornfield (and many additional teachers). All sessions feature talks, time for practice, processing, and a period for Q & A. Homework suggestions will be included as well. All participants agree to shared guidelines of mutual engagement.

Mindfulness Meditation originated with the Buddha and is particularly relevant for the Vipassana tradition of Buddhism. It is very practical and oriented toward our real lived experience. We learn to meet whatever is happening without being overwhelmed, highjacked or paralyzed by it. We are invited to pay attention to our sensations, thoughts, emotions/feelings. When we can do that from a centered place, we notice that all these strong experiences that arise are themselves constantly changing as the waves of the ocean flow in and out with the tides. We can meet them with awareness and compassion and grow beyond habitual or reactive patterns. This can create more spaciousness within us and our relationships. Growing in awareness and compassion is a life-long process of showing up to be with what is without judging ourselves, casting blame on others, or having to fix it all.

The course is not intended to promote a particular religious tradition but builds on the gifts of this practice for daily living. This course is also not intended as psychotherapy. There is no set cost for participation, but donations are accepted. All free will offerings will benefit the Shields Mission Project which serves families and individuals in Knox County and Lincolnville who need financial assistance.

The course will meet on Zoom only. There will be additional offerings in the months to come.

Session One – January 26

Introduction to Mindfulness Meditation and Mindfulness of the Breath

Session Two – February 2

Mindfulness of the Body and Walking Meditation

Session Three – February 9

Loving Kindness Meditation, Compassion, and the Practice of RAIN

Session Four – February 16

Mindfulness of Emotions and Working with Pain

Session Five – February 23

Mindfulness of Thoughts and Mindfulness in Daily Life