Getting Ready to Practice
Tips on setting up a space for practice:
- Find a calm, quiet space, free from distractions and clutter. Ideally, you can use this space for regular practice.
- Find a comfortable seat, any chair/bench/sofa where you can plant both feet flat on the floor and sit upright. It can also be a firm cushion or short stool on the floor. If sitting is painful, you can practice leaning on supports or laying down. Here’s some examples of sitting positions:
Getting ready for the online course:
Set your hands-free device on a stable surface during class, plugged in or with enough power for at least 1 hour. During the instructions/meditation period, please mute your device. During the Q & A session, you can unmute when speaking. Please keep your camera on during class to support the energy and presence of the group, and to allow the instructor to give feedback on your postures.
What to bring:
1) Pen/pencil/paintbrush and paper for the creative exercises. Optional to bring any art supplies of your choice!
2) Anything you might need to stay comfortable for 1 hour: a beverage, tissues, blanket, etc.
Recording notice:
To fulfill the practicum requirements, I need to record a minimum of 3 class sessions. The recordings will only be shared with the Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Certificate Program team for evaluation of my teaching. I plan on recording sessions 2, 4, 6. If you do not wish to be recorded, you can have your camera off on these days. I’ll remind everyone on these days.
Class guidelines:
Class will start promptly. Please arrive a couple minutes early to settle in.
I’ll log in 10-15 minutes early and will be available to answer questions and chat.
Late entries are permitted only for the first 5 minutes of class.
Support a respectful atmosphere with the following:
- use respectful language: refrain from hurtful speech
- practice self-focus: attend to and speak about your own experiences instead of others.
- practice attentive listening: listen with an open mind and willingness to learn
- share space: if you tend to speak often and at length, consider “moving back” to allow others to speak, and vice versa.
- right to pass: you are welcome to say “I pass” if you don’t wish to speak.
- right to exit: you are welcome to leave the class if you are feeling unwell or simply need a break to use the washroom. (to avoid disruption, please use the washroom before class if you can!) If you must leave, send a private note to the instructor before doing so and make sure your device is on mute while away.
What if I can’t attend a class? – No problem, please let me know in advance if you cannot make a class. Summary course materials will be shared on the course website so you can stay in the loop.
Can I bring a friend to a class? – Yes absolutely, please have your friend register in advance and send the instructor a note ahead of time.
The Universe in a Dewdrop 