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 marvelous 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 in planning for those who have completed a 6 week course
It is hoped that if a reasonable number of people, interested in continuing the training, grows in Thames that we will be able to offer: 

​One-day weekend workshops to be held through-out the year to explore and consolidate skills and practice.
Re-take opportunities so people can join a repeat of the course when it runs with spare spaces.
​Regular Support:
​For those who have completed an introductory programme we hope to be able to invited them to attend free monthly 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.

​Programme Outline

Week 1 Introduction to some of 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, Savouring/Gratitude Practice 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.