The root idea of mindfulness is simple: paying attention, in the present moment, with more acceptance and kindness. The practice of mindfulness translates this simple but powerful idea into action, but practice requires structure: instruction, protected time, and the company of like-minded others. Our programs provide this structure.

The results of this committed practice run deep: increased resilience under stress; learning how to hit pause and appreciate the good in life; and a sense of coming home to ourselves – remembering who we truly are and being able to access our inner resources more fully.

A growing body of evidence demonstrates how mindfulness can reduce the risk of a long list of stress-related illnesses. From heart disease to addictive patterns to the recurrence of depression, mindfulness can help.

Here at Mindfulness Northwest, we pair the increased awareness of mindfulness with the heart-opening potential of compassion. Knowing more fully what’s happening in each moment, we learn to meet both joys and sorrows with understanding, a wiser perspective, and a lot more kindness and patience with ourselves and others.

In addition to health improvements, mindfulness and compassion training has positive effects on interpersonal connection and relationships — including our relationship with ourselves! These practices can also reduce the implicit bias and depersonalization that underlies many of the social justice challenges our society faces today.