Lesson 1 – Upstream and Downstream

Welcome to Unit 1!

Welcome to Unit 1 of your course – the first step on your journey!

Here are some take-home points for this unit:

What is mindfulness?

Jon Kabat-Zinn’s definition: “Mindfulness is the awareness that arises from paying attention in a particular way: on purpose, moment by moment, and non-judgementally.”

What mindfulness is not

It’s not a Buddhist class – it comes from Buddhism, but what we practise is secular mindfulness

It’s not a relaxation exercise – the intention is to be present with whatever is in our experience at any given moment

It’s not a technique – it’s a way of life

Unit 1 practices

Informal practice:        Mindful eating

Formal practice:           Body scan