GOT STRESS?

COME SEE HOW MINDFULNESS MEDITATION COULD HELP

Life keeps taking us by surprise. We’re constantly trying to rebalance, rush back to “normal,” get a grip…but maybe you’ve wondered if there’s a better way to feel better? There is. As Jon Kabat-Zinn, PhD, says, “We can’t stop the waves but we can learn how to surf. “
Kabat-Zinn is the molecular biologist who developed Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction in 1979 at the University of Massachusetts Medical Center. Initially directed to patients with chronic pain, the approach is now being applied to emotional pain–anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and cravings for drugs, alcohol and food, among other difficulties. It boosts immunity and leads to greater emotional and mental resilience. And all of this is why it’s now being taught around the world in schools, hospitals, corporations, community centers, prisons —and British parliament.
What exactly is mindfulness?
It’s a simple practice, backed by contemporary neuroscience, that allows us to catch our breath in the midst of the daily rush of life. We learn to pay attention to what is actually happening right now rather than be blinded by our expectations, fears and hopes. We make contact with the moment, which allows for fresh and appropriate responses rather than habitual reflexes. This shift -–from fog to clarity, from autopilot reactivity to emotional freedom—makes the difference between sleep-walking through our lives and being awake. It gives us a place to pause. The blur of activity slows down. We see we have choices, and we’re better able to make good choices. Mindfulness is inseparable from heartfulness and our capacity to connect with others—and ourselves—brings its own joys. Emerging from the cloud of mindlessness, we discover our innate wisdom, humor and compassion. Gradually, our lives change. Our sense of well being grows. We become more able to experience peace and delight.
On September 9 and September 16 at 10am, in the shul social hall, you’re invited to come and see for yourself what mindfulness is. Mindfulness instructor and Orient neighbor Amy Gross is offering two workshops, a week apart. You’ll learn practices that can bring relief and balance, and get a basic understanding of how stress arises and strategies that can reduce it. Come back the next week to deepen your understanding, ask any questions, and practice together. There is no charge—Amy is offering these teachings to our community out of gratitude to the practice. ABC anchorman Dan Harris famously estimates that the practice has made him 10% happier. Amy thinks he’s underestimating the gain. Just bring your curiosity and desire to learn how to live more peacefully and joyously with yourself and others.