PLEASE READ ALL THE INFORMATION ABOUT THE PROGRAM BEFORE COMMITING.  NO REFUNDS WILL BE GIVEN UNLESS WE DO NOT MEET THE 15 REQUIRED TO HOLD THE CLASS. About MBSR Mindfulness Training has arisen as a proven means to reduce stress, and cultivate deeply nourishing, authentic and meaningful lives. Based on the popular mindfulness based stress reduction program (MBSR) of Jon Kabat-Zinn, the Mindfulness Training creates a sense of well-being resulting from an increased awareness of inner experiences and a conscious interaction with the world. Participants increase their understanding of the physiology of stress, discern where they hold stress and learn to decode the subtle language of their inner nature: reducing stress, improving communication, enhancing relationships. The 8 week program (north county location) Thank you for your interest in the Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction 8 week course.  The classes will be held weekly at 315 Banquet Hall, 315 Orange Street, Palm Harbor starting January 28 from 6:30pm-8:00pm.  The 1.5 hour classes will be held: January 28, February 4, 11, 18, 25, March 4, 11.  The all-day Mindfulness Retreat will be a combined class with the south county group and will be held on March 16 at this location.This eight week Mindfulness Training for Stress Reduction program is being provided for those who are willing to commit to the full 8 weeks.   This program will be facilitated by an experienced, professional counselor who is an experienced mindfulness practitioner and engaging group facilitator.  In the mindfulness practice class, sitting meditation can be done in a chair, with a cushion or even lying down.  You will be practicing very gentle mindful hatha yoga, sitting and walking meditation, so it’s helpful to wear comfortable clothing and bring a sweater for comfort if you need.  Bring a yoga mat and meditation cushion if you have them.  Chairs are available for those who don’t want to sit on the floor.  All levels of physical ability can be accommodated. You may bring water or a beverage although please avoid eating in class.  A meal will be incorporated into the 8th class and you will be able to bring a lunch. During seven 1.5 hour weekly group sessions you will receive personalized instruction with skill, kindness, consideration and humor.  Michael Whalen, a professional counselor, will be your guide as you learn a series of mindful methods.  Elements of each class include: sitting and walking meditation, body awareness, journaling, meaningful small group interactions and more. Our Commitment / Your Commitment The value of this program is $500 per person while PCSB staff that enrolls will pay far less.  As we subsidize this program, with space only for 25 participants, we want to only enroll those who are serious and committed to this program.  If you cannot commit to at least 7 sessions, including the full day retreat, please allow another staff member to take one of the limited spots.  Those that attend all 8 sessions will be eligible to win a Kindle Fire. Additional tools You will be encouraged to continue deepening your experience between classes by using what you have learned, your ebook and 2 CDs of guided medications at home.  Additionally, you will have email access to the instructor during the week to answer any questions. A facebook page will be available for you adding to the development of a shared community of connection and support for the group’s mindfulness practice. The eighth session caps the experience with a day-long Mindfulness Retreat, allowing time for an extended meditation experience.  The facilitator will promote discussion of the personal explorations, challenges, discoveries, and benefits encountered during the training. Graduates may attend any future One Day Retreat, as space permits.  Additional information about the retreat will be discussed in class. Cost / Registration / Wait List The cost of the full program is $59 for PCS employees who have Humana insurance.  Those PCS employees who are benefits eligible but do not elect to take Humana insurance may take the class for $99.  The program is only open to PCS benefit eligible employees only.  The class will be available to retirees only if space is available before the close of registration. Retirees should contact Christina Kempf at kempfc@pcsb.org to be placed on a wait list.   All fees are required upon registration and no refunds are given for absences of any classes including the one day Mindfulness Retreat.  Individual needs will be accommodated as possible. Once you register, you will automatically receive a confirmation email.  If you DO NOT receive the confirmation email, contact Christina Kempf at kempfc@pcsb.org right away.  If the class is full, contact Christina at that address to be added to a wait list. Bios of Facilitator Michael Whalen M.A. LMHC is a professional counselor, coach, consultant and speaker.  He is passionate about supporting people of any age in living fully each day, wherever they may be on life’s journey.  As a long time mindfulness practitioner, Michael values the opportunity mindfulness offers to be aware of the present moment and the richness it brings to his life.  He can be reached at michaelwhalenlmhc@gmail.com  or 727-742-8297.  If you have specific questions about the MBSR program, please contact Michael.  For questions related to the registration site, contact Christina Kempf, Employee Wellness Coordinator, at kempfc@pcsb.org   .   PCS Employee with PCS Humana insurance - $59.00 PCS Employee WITHOUT Humana insurance - $99.00 $59.00 - $99.00