Print this page An Introduction to Mindfulness: Learning to Be with Yourself

Mindfulness is about learning how to be present with your experience, just as it is. This course offers a gentle and practical introduction to mindfulness meditation, focusing on awareness, attention and self-compassion rather than performance or perfection. Participants are guided through simple practices and reflections that can be used in everyday life, alongside discussion that helps clarify what mindfulness is—and what it is not. Suitable for beginners and those returning to mindfulness, this course provides a supportive space to slow down, build awareness and develop a more grounded relationship with thoughts and emotions.

DELIVERY MODE

Face-to-face

COURSE RESOURCES

Optional handouts will be provided by the tutor to support learning and reflection. Participants will also be guided toward freely available mindfulness resources (such as the free version of the Insight Timer app) to support short, regular home practice between sessions. No prior experience or special equipment is required.

COURSE OUTLINE

Week 1:

• What mindfulness is and what it is not
• Common misconceptions about meditation
• Guided mindfulness practice

Week 2:

• Working with thoughts and the inner critic
• Learning to approach experience with kindness
• Guided mindfulness practice

Week 3:

•  Mindfulness of emotions and everyday stress
• Staying present without needing to fix or change experience
• Guided mindfulness practice

Week 4:

• Building a realistic daily meditation habit
• Integrating mindfulness into everyday life
• Review, questions, and next steps for continued practice

LEARNING OUTCOMES

By the end of the course, participants will be able to:

• Understand the basic principles of mindfulness meditation
• Recognise common challenges and misconceptions about meditation
• Practice several simple mindfulness meditation techniques
• Approach meditation with greater confidence and self-kindness
• Begin or continue a short, sustainable daily mindfulness practice

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION 

This course is educational in nature and focuses on mindfulness as a practical life skill. It is not a therapy or counseling course. Participants are encouraged to engage at their own pace and comfort level.