When: Every Wednesday 6-8pm from 17 July - 4 Sept 2024, plus Saturday 24 August
Where: In person in the Cape Town city centre
Cost: R5500 (Early bird R5250 before 31 April 2024)

Who is this course suitable for?

• Anyone who is looking for more ease, peace and spaciousness in their lives
• Those who wish to learn a way to reduce stress and suffering and improve their health

What is mindfulness?
Mindfulness is a way of being, taught through a range of very simple exercises that bring our awareness to what is happening right now. It allows us to gain perspective, to step back from the intensity of our experience and see what is really going on. With this perspective, we can act with more wisdom and clarity. We can enjoy our lives more fully when we are truly present and discard the layers of stress we add through trying to control the uncontrollable.

Where is MBSR from?
MBSR was started by Jon Kabat-Zinn at the University of Massachusetts Medical School.

How do the classes run?
You will be introduced to different forms of mindfulness practice which include sitting meditation, walking meditation, body scan and mindful movement. Through teaching and discussion you will develop an understanding of your patterns and reactions to stress and how to manage these more skillfully.

Do I need mindfulness experience?
No. This course is suitable for beginners as well as those with a mindfulness practice who would like to learn more.

Do I need to be able to sit on the floor? What about my mobility impairment?
No physical fitness is required. We will mostly be sitting on chairs, and all physical postures can be modified to suit your needs.

What about faith and religion?
Mindfulness is a secular practice which will not interfere with any religious, spiritual beliefs. We welcome everyone to try it out.

What do I need to bring with me?
A gym / yoga mat or blanket for mindful movement. It can help to wear comfortable clothing with an elasticated waist.

What is the home practice in between classes?
Each week home practice will be prescribed which includes following a guided mindfulness practice at home six days of the week. This should be 45 minutes a day but a shorter 15 minute version is also provided.

What if I have a mental illness or substance use disorder?
Please discuss doing MBSR with your mental health care provider. We will also discuss your individual needs and suitability for the course at our individual pre-course meeting online. Dr Roos is a psychiatrist, but this course does not replace individual psychiatric follow up and you will need to continue to receive care from your mental health care provider.

Will my medical aid pay?
Some may cover this if you have a diagnosed mental illness. To discuss with Dr Roos at pre-course interview.

When will future courses run?
Please email, Whatsapp or call us to enquire.

Tessa and Jacqui are certified mindfulness teachers through IMISA and Stellenbosch University.

Tessa Roos, specialist psychiatrist
MBChB (UCT), FCPsych (SA),
RCPsych (United Kingdom)

Jacqui Wigg, educational professional
BA Hons (Rhodes), PGCE