Instructor(s):
Debra J. Macking, LMT, MA
Massage Therapist & Healer
Achievinglife@gmail.com

Course Time / Format:
18hours: 3-6hrs/wk, 3-6wks
Lecture, Discussion, Activity, Research

Course Description:
Beyond a general awareness of self and life, Mindfulness incorporates a deeper level of awareness and connection between the mind/body and its surroundings. More and more research in multiple disciplines is finding the value of Mindfulness and relating it to benefits in health & wellness as well as to living a more fulfilled life. By gaining a working knowledge as well as application and experience with Mindfulness one can grow in their relationships with themselves, other people, and the world(s) around them.

This course will delve further into the understandings, definitions, and uses of the practice of Mindfulness. By use of materials from areas of Psychology, Medicine, Alternative Therapies, and Meditation practices an indepth knowledge of what Mindfulness is and the benefits of it will be discussed. To further understand aspects of Mindfulness assignments will include a number of Mindfulness activities with notes, research into the study and uses of mindfulness, and creation of an individual or group Mindfulness activity. This course is designed to be a longer course incorporating lectures, discussions, and activities that will both provide knowledge and experience with Mindfulness. An additional goal is to be able to start incorporating Mindfulness activites into ones daily life.

Learning Objectives:
*Give examples and definitions of Mindfulness across multiple disciplines.
*Understand the five senses and how each relates to improving Mindfulness and the Mind/Body connection.
*Be able to briefly describe general history of Mindfulness in meditation and as a modern alternative therapy.
*Be able to list ways which Mindfulness is beneficial.
*Be able to provide information on personal experiences with Mindfulness.
*Be able to create activities that revolve around Mindfulness.

Included Reference Materials:
* Various articles and sites that are related to Mindfulness.

General Course Outline: Time devoted to class may varry based on primary format of course and interest.
Class - Topic

Grading Scale:
While a non-credit course the class will offer a grading of Surpassed, Passed, and Unsatisfactory. Grading will be based on utilization of course interaction, pass/fail on assignments, and final one-on-one discussion with instructor.
Above 80%: Surpassed
Above 60%: Passed
Below 60%: Unsatisfactory

Physical Contact Statement:
Due to the nature of this course, students are advised that physical contact between the instructor and student, or student to student may occur for some assignments and as part of some discussions and experiences. If you have concerns about these requirements, you are encouraged to discuss these with the instructor prior to the next class session to determine if appropriate alternative assignments exist. If you do not think you will be able to participate to the extent required by the course, you are encouraged to drop the course.