This course will serve as an introduction to Mindfulness for the busy practitioner. The content will relate core mindfulness topics and tools to common things that veterinarians face in everyday practice (e.g. challenging clients, staff interactions, workload, burnout, emotional aspects of the job, self-judgement).
Participants are invited to engage in discussion, ask questions, and report on their own practice and experiences in order to learn and grow together. The small group dynamic provides the opportunity, if desired, to build connections and friendships with like-minded people going through similar challenges.
The sessions will include brief practices such as a body scan, mindfulness of breathing, kindness meditation, awareness of sensations and emotions. Topics to be covered will include:
Mindfulness of the Body: The body as home base, a link to the present moment (vs thought/worry)
The Storytelling Mind: The mind on autopilot- how to step off the wheel
Mindfulness of Emotions: Becoming aware as emotions arise, not identifying with them and working to RESPOND instead of REACT
Cultivating Kindness to Self and Others: Working with the judging mind: we go into this profession caring deeply about our patients but often lack the ability to extend that same level kindness to ourselves
Willingness to Be with Things as They Are: Saying ‘YES’ to what is here, now instead of getting caught up wishing things were different- becoming more available to the present moment
Sundays 4-5pm PST / 7-8pm EST
May 16th - June 20th
suggested contribution $40-$80: Students who have the means to do so are encouraged to contribute towards the course, at whatever level is most comfortable to them. In this way the teachings of Mindfulness may remain available to all regardless of their ability to pay. Our courses are 100% funded by the generosity of our students and supporters.