Meditation Drop-In

Staying afloat in the Tsunami of change

Many students and staff are seeking ways to cope with, what seems like, a huge flood of pressures on top of an already demanding life. Anxiety about the future is a sane reaction to the poly-crisis we face, however, it’s not inevitable this becomes our default.

While mindfulness is not a magic solution there is plenty of evidence that it can help us metabolise our feelings and find, through acceptance, a wise path.

Why Mindfulness?

Many people  find mindfulness a helpful way to deal with the day-to-day challenges of university life. Students at St Andrews University have reported that:

• they feel more resilient and more able to deal with pressure
• they meet deadlines with less stress
• they make difficult decisions more easily
• anxieties and worries have less hold on them
• they experience happier and calmer feelings
• life seems more enjoyable, satisfying and interesting.

Session content

Bob Chase, our Mindfulness Trainer, will begin each session with some instruction and a led practice.  There will then be time for disussion and a short final practice. Hot drinks and biscuits provided.

Everyone welcome

The instruction is secular (non-religious) and sensitive to the needs of neurodiverse participants. The atmosphere is welcoming and relaxed. 

“Really appreciated all of your insights and the guided meditations – thank you. Hope to see you in another session soon”  (Participant)

Just starting meditation?

Attending a session is a great way to start. A group is supportive and you can ask the tutor questions about your experience. However, do think about if you are ready.

Readiness & self care

It’s important that you are not feeling especially vulnerable when you begin meditating. If you are currently experiencing mental health difficulties or are receiving therapy it is best to get advice and maybe delay starting until you feel more prepared.

Already had some experience?

Even if a session covers ground you are familiar with, it provides a great opportunity to revisit practices and ideas. Mindfulness is about going deeper rather than widening our experience. We work on encountering each experience as if “for the first time”.

Any questions?

Feel free to email Bob if you have any questions about the sessions or your readiness to start: bob@mindfulinthecity.co.uk

Mindfulness at St Benet’s

St Benet’s Chaplaincy has sponsored Bob Chase to offer Mindfulness Training for students and staff since 2019. This is part of the work of the Chaplaincy that includes support for individual students, arts events and much more.