MIND IN RELATION TO MINDFULNESS: MINDFUL, MINDLESS, MIND-FREE

JAMES LOW

THURSDAY MARCH 17TH TO SUNDAY MARCH 20TH 2011

4 DAY CONTINUING PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT RESIDENTIAL FOR PSYCHOTHERAPISTS WHO USE MINDFULNESS IN THEIR PRACTICE

The focus of this short residential will be on developing a clear understanding of mindfulness in a Buddhist context and exploring how this might support work in therapy, both through releasing the therapist’s attention from habitual distractions and promoting a fresh curiosity about the patient’s actual situation.

We will look at the traditional Buddhist approaches to mindfulness and explore how they are related to the project of awakening or enlightenment. Buddhism and psychotherapy are not the same. Being clear about the differences can help us to build bridges between them while avoiding confusion and misunderstanding.

This short retreat will be structured around meditation instruction, shared practice, individual practice, teaching of the Buddhist principles and group discussion.

James Low has been studying and practising Tibetan Buddhism since the 1960’s and has translated many texts with his root teacher, CR Lama. He has been teaching dharma for over 20 years, particularly the principles of dzogchen. James has trained in a wide variety of psychotherapy models. He works as a Consultant Psychotherapist in the NHS and also has a private psychotherapy practice. (For further information about James Low and his work see www.simplybeing.co.uk.)

VENUE
Oblate Retreat Centre, Wistaston, Crewe, Cheshire (www.oblateretreatcentre.org.uk) The Oblate Centre is located in its own grounds and offers a tranquil setting for retreat and learning. It is a few minutes taxi ride from Crewe railway station and there are good motorway links

COURSE FEE
The course fee is £250. A CPD attendance Certificate will be provided on request.

ACCOMMODATION
Accommodation is available in single and twin bedded rooms at a cost of £210 and includes all meals and drinks. There are three rooms on the ground floor that are suitable for people with disabilities. Thirty places are available for all three nights, 12 extra beds are available for Thursday and Fridays evenings. A list of local hotels that can offer accommodation for Saturday evening can be provided on request. A reduction will be made for those staying in a hotel on Saturday night.

PRACTICALITIES
The course will begin after lunch on Thursday 17th March and finish after lunch on Sunday 20th

BOOKING
For further details and booking information please email Kath Brady at bradykath1@hotmail.co.uk