Last Updated: 20.Mar.2019

Craftsbury Outdoor Center is happy to announce that we are hosting a Mindfulness-based Stress Reduction (MBSR) class Tuesdays this spring, led by Craftsbury member Ben Tipton.

Mindfulness-based Stress Reduction (MBSR) is an educational program developed by Jon Kabat-Zinn, Ph.D., in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Its eight-week curriculum is designed to help participants cultivate mindfulness through direct practice in meditation, mindful movement, instruction, and conversation. Since its initial development, MBSR has been studied for a range of medical and psychological conditions, and is now offered in medical, occupational, military and educational settings around the world.

This eight-week course is taught in 2.5-hour, weekly group classes and one six-hour weekend retreat.

Participants in this course will have an orientation on Tuesday, March 26. The 8 weeks of classes begin April 9, and run through May 28, with an all-day retreat on Saturday, May 18. Classes are open to everyone, no experience is necessary - but class size is limited, so register early if you're interested.

Who will be leading the classes?
Classes will be led by Ben Tipton, PA-C.Ben has been serving patients in clinical medicine for over 22 years. He studied medicine at Albany Medical College and the University of Nebraska. Since graduating he has practiced in general surgery, emergency medicine, orthopedics, family practice, and internal medicine. He is the founder/creator of the Mindfulness Program at Mid Coast Health Care in Brunswick, Maine. Currently he is in practice with Northern Counties Health Care at the Island Pond Health and Dental Clinic.

How big are the classes?
There are typically 10-15 participants in each MBSR class.

Do I need to have any experience with meditating to sign up?
No. Participants do not need to know anything about mindfulness when they begin the course. Please note that the course is also open to individuals with prior experience.

What should I wear?
If possible, dress in loose layers. You do not need to wear yoga or exercise clothes. The mindful movement is very gentle and can be done in regular clothing. If you come directly from work, school, or another setting, it is fine to wear any type of clothing. Please avoid wearing perfume, cologne, or other strong fragrances.

Are there breaks in the classes?
There are no formal class breaks. However, all participants are encouraged to stand up, walk around, use the bathroom, or take a break whenever needed.

Do I need to read anything to prepare?
No. Reading about mindfulness can cause learners to intellectualize the practice and prevent them from fully immersing in the experience. At the end of the course, you may request a list of recommended reading materials and other resources.

What is the cost?
The suggested cost for this class is $250. Please consider paying as much as you are willing but not more than able. If paying more than this cost is within your means, your generosity will allow us to offer needed scholarships for this course.

Find out more about certified instructor Ben Tipton, PA-C, plus more about MBSR in this poster. Have lingering questions or are you ready to register? Contact Ben at 802-467-8787 or email bensimpleliving@gmail.com

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