Perhaps the biggest tragedy of our lives is that freedom is possible, yet we can pass our years trapped in the same old patterns…We may want to love other people without holding back, to feel authentic, to breathe in the beauty around us, to dance and sing. Yet each day we listen to inner voices that keep our life small. – Tara Brach

Dates: November 5, 12, 19, 26, December 3, December 10

Working with clay is a natural way to connect with body and breath. The malleability and immediacy of the material naturally integrates the mind-body connection. This workshop led by registered art therapist, Suzanne Thomson, is suitable for students being introduced to mindfulness for the first time as well as for those students with previous mindfulness experience. In this 6-week workshop, we will explore through the use of clay and the practice of RAIN, the four foundations of mindfulness: body, feelings, mind, and the nature of our experience. The acronym RAIN is an easy-to-remember tool for practicing mindfulness and compassion using the following four steps:

Recognize what is going on;
Allow the experience to be there, just as it is;
Investigate with interest and care;
Nourish with self-compassion.

Each week participants will take clay home to practice the skill learned from the weekly workshop. Everyone will be asked to bring a journal which will be used throughout the group process as a tool for reflection. The emphasis will be on the process of working with clay while not being attached the product we create.

Quote: Brach, Tara. (2013). True Refuge: Finding Peace and Freedom in Your Own Awakened Heart.  New York: Bantam Books.

Gardiner Friends, please log in to access your discount.

Please note: Gardiner Friends may only purchase adult clay classes at the discounted rate for membership card holders.