STANDARD COMPETENCIES

 

 1. Discuss the research history and findings as well as key figures who have contributed to the modern mainstream mindfulness movement.

 2. Describe and define the values of mediation for physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health as is being demonstrated by research.

 3. Analyze research identifying how stress impacts the brain and overall health.

 4. Define & differentiate between various types of breathing methods.

 5. Define & differentiate between various types of relaxation and mediation techniques and the connection to spiritually-based practices of

    some methods compared to those that are not religious-based.

 6. Demonstrate increased self-awareness of the body and the process of thinking and emphasizing states of consciousness.

 7. Experiment with and practice various approaches and techniques for achieving the meditative state, both formally and informally to

    develop a regular mindfulness practice.

 8. Describe and collaborate on methods for teaching breathing and meditation techniques to others for stress reduction and as a potential

    self-care tool to augment healing other health-related conditions.

 9. Discuss and formulate methods for teaching breathing and meditation techniques to others for stress reduction and as a potential self-care

    tool to augment healing other health-related conditions.

 10. Recognize and appraise difficulties and potential roadblocks to achieving a meditative state for self and potential future clientele/patients.

 11. Experience and participate in a formal group meditation within the community or via class fieldtrip.

 12. Design a collaborative group project to elaborate on a particular method or in sharing information on an adjunctive mindfulness

     methods and spiritual components of relaxation, meditation and other related practices not covered in class.

 

 

 TOPICAL OUTLINE

 

 I. Historical Research and contemporary advancements explaining the Mindfulness movement in connection to its influence on physical,

    mental, emotional and spiritual health.

      a. HISTORIC use of breathing and meditation by Eastern societies

      b. Modern-day figures and organizations impacting the emerging mainstream mindfulness research & movement in Western societies

 II. Impact of stress on the brain and the impact of meditation on stress, overall health, energy and body awareness

      a. Increase of gray matter

      b. Impact on focus and concentration

      c. Impact on overall stress and stress-related consequences

      d. The connection to the energies of the Chakra System

      e. Influence of positive thoughts and mindfulness practices on brain chemistry and on mind, body & spirit health

      f. Enhance body awareness in recognizing and relieving tension

 III. Teach & experience various types of Breathing

      a. Definition of breath-work

      b. Correct breathing using Diaphragmatic/Pranayma Breathing

      c. Alternate Nostril Breathing

      d. Calming breathing methods

              i. Soft Belly

             ii. 4-7-8 Technique

            iii. Mindful Breath Counting

            iv. Breathing & use of letting-go visualization

 IV. Teach and practice various types of Relaxation and Meditation Techniques

      a. Definition of mindfulness and meditation

      b. Various methods

              i. Autogenics

             ii. Biofeedback & Self-Hypnosis

            iii. Guided imagery & Visualization

             iv. Progressive Muscle Relaxation

              v. Transcendental Meditation

             vi. Walking Meditation and use of Labyrinths

            vii. Use of mudras, malas & sound in meditative practices

           viii. Focusing

             ix. Various other meditative practices as time permits

 V. Discuss implementing a regular mindfulness practice as a part of practitioner self-care and in teaching these practices to

    others to employ as means to influence self-care, reduce stress & health-related   conditions as well as for preventative care.

 VI. Identify potential struggles for some in achieving a meditative state and in helping self & others to overcome and discuss means to overcome.

 VII. Students will be assigned the task to experience and participate in a formal group mediation in the community and/or the class will embark

      on a group fieldtrip to a community-based organization or spiritually-based establishment where meditation/ mindfulness is regularly practiced.

 VIII. Students will participate in a group project to present information on a chosen mindfulness practice or one not covered in class