This experiential full day workshop introduces the practice of mindfulness meditation and self-compassion as genuine supports in the art of building resilience, enhancing listening and communication skills and nourishing ourselves as health and  social care professionals. 

Mindfulness is a simple practice that anyone can do.  In this experiential workshop, we will learn how to create space for ourselves in the midst of busyness, heavy workloads or stressful situations. Taking this mindful space allows us to be fully present to ourselves and others and gives us a genuine way to live and work with less stress and anxiety. We will also learn simple self-compassion methods that can help us relate to ourselves and our work with greater empathy and kindness.

Clinical research has shown that people who practice mindfulness and compassion practices report an improved ability to communicate clearly, make decisions and respond appropriately to stressful situations. In the workplace they also report enhanced team relationships and a better ability to handle workplace conflict. With a regular committed practice these methods have a powerful effect on our health, happiness, and well-being.

Learning outcomes:

• learning the practical skills of mindfulness meditation, including methods to intentionally shift attention and focus your mind
• learn a range of mindfulness practices for daily use to minimise stress
• develop a toolbox of internal skills to respond to situations with more creativity, openness and calm
• develop methods to respond compassionately to physical pain, stress, difficult emotions and thought patterns
• learn to relate to yourself, colleagues and clients with increased awareness and empathy
• increase your self-regulation and self-soothing skills and develop a friendlier attitude towards your personal experience
• understand the health benefits of practicing mindfulness and self-compassion

Please bring a warm blanket and a yoga mat if you have one.

The workshop will be facilitated by Alvina Cassidy and is suitable for complete beginners and those with some experience. If you have any questions about the workshop, please send your query to cpdofficer@iasw.ie.