Mindfulness: the awareness that emerges through paying attention on purpose, in the present moment, and non-judgementally to the unfolding of experience moment by moment  Kabat-Zinn 2003

​This Introduction to Mindfulness training programme has really helped me to recognise and gain insight into the working of my mind. I feel braver and am now
more willing to look at myself honestly. I have skills to be able to break out of habitual thought patterns in a practical way that is free from self-judgement. Laura Bailey, Taup​ō
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​Deirdre’s course has helped me a great deal personally and in my connections with others and the environment. The topics covered each week are extremely meaningful, useful, practical and totally do’able! I am calmer, happier and slowly learning to have compassion for myself. I absolutely recommend this course. Deirdre is a magnificent teacher. 
​Tam Holden, Taup​ō


I loved this course. Deirdre is a marvellous teacher and the course was a wonderful mixture of mindfulness science and its practical application. Each week we were introduced to something new and thought provoking. I felt very safe in the group and loved the discussions and the way we grew in our confidence to continue with our own practice. Sarah Hart, Taup​ō

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​​On Going Opportunities:
for those who have completed an 8 weeks course

​One-day weekend workshops are held through-out the year to explore and consolidate skills and practice. Annual one-day silent retreats are also held locally and kept at a very manageable price to provide a unique opportunity to deepen and strengthen the mindfulness practices learned in the first 8 weeks.
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​Regular Support:
​Those who have completed an introductory programme are invited to attend free fortnightly lunch time meet-ups where they can participate in a 15 minute guided practice, ask questions and share and support each other in their developing mindfulness practice, at no cost.

​Programme Outline

 Week 1 Introduction to the Neuroscience of Mindfulness. Establishing your mindfulness practice

Week 2 Mindfulness of the Body and the Senses. The neuro-physiology of the Stress Response

Week 3 Mindfulness of Thinking. Focused and Open Awareness

Week 4 Mindfulness of Emotions and the Three-Brain model 

Week 5 Mindful Self-Compassion and working with difficult emotions (the RAIN approach) 
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Week 6 Positive Neuro-plasticity and Savouring/Gratitude Practice 
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Week 7 Goals and Values and Self-Regulation  

Week 8 Happiness, Well-Being, Psychological Resilience and continuing your daily mindfulness practice
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Lesson Follow-up:
​Weekly handouts (hard copy and/or digital) including useful links and further reading build into a comprehensive file. An email summary follows-up each session and recommended audio practices for home use are introduced each week along with a digital Resource File and Reading List.