MND 101 The Origins and Philosophies of Mindfulness

The current modern practice of mindfulness has deep roots and origins in ancient meditation practices and spiritual and religious philosophies. This course will explore the evolution of mindfulness from its early eastern beginnings (as seen in Hinduism and Buddhism teachings) and trace it through to the western and non-secular approaches known today. We will discuss key philosophies and tenets, such as compassion and pain and suffering and the important foundation they provide for contemporary practice. We will explore the teachings of significant leaders in the field (such as the Buddha, the Dalai Lama and Thich Nhat Hahn) and examine how key westerners (such as Jon Kabat-Zinn, Eckhart Tolle, Jack Kornfield and Sharon Salzberg) have adapted and popularized the practice of mindfulness in the West.
Videos, in-depth group conversations, webinar experiences and experiential practice will round out this course.

MND 102 The Neuroscience and Science of Mindfulness

This course examines how mindfulness can quite literally alter and change our brain structure and chemistry. We will summarize and distill the thousands of leading neuroscientific research papers conducted in the field of mindfulness over the last 30 years. We will take an in-depth look at the brain and explore the physical benefits that mindfulness practice can have – such as improving memory, attention and focus, decreasing anxiety and depressive symptoms, preserving the aging brain – and so much more. We will also explore how key medical and scientific experts are applying this research in the fields of mental health, addictions, cardiology, pain management and more. Fireside chat with a neuroscientist, discussion on meditation technology, and experiential practice will be incorporated.

MND 103 Meditation

Scholars have uncovered evidence that the practice of meditation has been used for at least 5000 years - originating first in the east and then travelling across the world through to the west. Meditation has become mainstream in modern times with everyone from top CEO’s to school children adopting the practice. This course will define and explore the practice and benefits of meditation. Students will learn different types of meditation (including mindfulness, Zen, mantra, transcendental, vipassana among others). Myths and misconception will also be explored and challenged. Students will participate in numerous experiential meditations throughout the course and explore the literature on how, when and where to meditate.

MND 104 Living Mindfully

This course teaches one how to live a mindful life by embodying the teachings and learnings from previous courses. Students will be required to journal throughout this course in order to introspect and deepen their understanding of their inner selves. Students will hone their skills of compassion, empathy, communication and connection. By viewing all beings as interconnected students will understand how a mindful shift in their life has the potential to create positive waves across larger communities and society as a whole. Students will practice hands on applications to integrate mindfulness into their day to day lives in various capacities. We will also explore the mainstream mindful movement – including apps, technology and modern studios and how these can aid one’s practice.

MND 105 Mindfulness Based Intervention

This course will introduce students to the primary therapeutic models of mindfulness. These include; mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR), mindfulness based cognitive behavioural therapy (MBCT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and the practices of mindful eating and mindful self-compassion. We will explore the key principles and theories of each model. This course will allow students to practice honing their skills and conclude with a practical application of each model in both personal and professional areas.