MindfulNU is an evidence based approach to explore mediation and mindfulness in a environment of relational, experiential and reflective learning. Group practices include sitting, walking, loving kindness meditation, writing, and group sharing. The curriculum, developed by staff and students, is based on Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) which is widely received as the gold standard for creating a personal mindfulness/meditation practice. Graduates of the program will be eligible to apply for the MindfulNU Student Facilitator program.
The program is led by Eric Budzynski, Associate Director for Religious & Spiritual Life and Certified Teacher of MBSR and our Mindfulness Student Leaders, Maggie Munday Odom & Sai Thirunagari. Please email e-budzynski@northwestern.edu for more information.
The first step of a pathway into mindfulness is experiencing it for yourself.
Breathing Space Practice
Try this 3 Minute Breathing Space now.
After you finish listening, ask yourself:
- What did I notice?
- How is this different from how I normally pay attention?
- What am I experiencing in my body, thoughts, feelings right now?
What Is Mindfulness?
Mindfulness is the experience of developing particular awareness to the present moment without judgement. The practice of mindfulness includes drawing attention to the breath, the entire body, physical sensations, thoughts, and sounds. Exploring mindfulness comes in many ways and forms but is often associated with meditation, walking, and yoga or body movement.
Mindfulness has a place in nearly all faith and spiritual traditions but it not specifically tied to one religion nor is a religious practice in of itself. Mindfulness cultivates a path into developing awareness and response to the everyday stress of life. For thousands of years, students of mindfulness have understood the benefits and agency of these practices and now the latest neurological science also lends an empirical understanding as well.
The varied practices of mindfulness are as broad as they are deep. The invitation from Religious & Spiritual Life is to explore and be supported in this gift through the understanding of spirituality as a component of the Eight Dimensions of Wellness.
Where Do I Start?
MBSR (Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction) | Sponsored by Spiritual Life
- The complete and foundational 8 week curriculum designed to guide participants into an ongoing practice of mindfulness through various modalities of meditation practice
Weekly Drop-In Meditation | Various locations and times
- Start a new meditation practice and be supported in a group setting.
- Wednesdays in Parkes 204 | 12:15-12:45 pm
- Fridays in Parkes 204 | 4-4:30 pm
Introduction to Mindfulness | Sponsored by CAPS
- Four-part workshop to explore the practices of mindfulness and the science behind them.
For more information or to be added to the Northwestern mindfulness list-serv, contact e-budzynski@northwestern.edu.