I’m new to mindfulness, where should I begin?
All of our classes are suitable for beginners. For adults interested in training in mindfulness meditation, the Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) or the Introduction to Mindfulness classes are recommended. The Introduction class is intended for those who would like a shorter, less intensive training experience. MBSR provides a more in-depth opportunity to learn and practice mindfulness meditation. For adults with a specific interest in mindful eating, the Mindful Eating class is recommended. Beginners are also welcome to attend one of our weekly Community Mindfulness Meditation Groups, but many will benefit from taking one of our classes before or at the same time as participating in our community meditation groups.
For teenagers who wish to learn mindfulness meditation, MBSR for Teens (MBSR-T) is offered (both a high-school class and a middle-school class).
For teenagers who wish to learn mindfulness meditation, MBSR for Teens (MBSR-T) is offered (both a high-school class and a middle-school class).
Should I take the Introduction to Mindfulness class before the Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) class?
No, you do not need to take the Introduction to Mindfulness class before taking MBSR. Both classes are suitable for beginners. The Introduction to Mindfulness class is intended for people who want to get started with mindfulness meditation, but aren’t able to commit to the time commitment involved with MBSR. People who find the Introduction to Mindfulness course helpful are encouraged to consider continuing to deepen their practice by taking MBSR.
Are the Community Meditation Groups suitable for beginners?
Beginners are welcome to attend our Community Meditation Groups. The meetings include guided meditation practice (limited guidance), a brief talk, and an opportunity for discussion and questions. However, most beginners will benefit from structured training beyond what is provided in our community meditation groups.
I would like to take one of your mindfulness classes, but am concerned about the cost. What options are available for me?
We believe strongly in making our mindfulness classes available to anyone who believes that they might be helpful in their life and is willing to commit themselves to do the work. Therefore, we offer our classes on an honor-system based sliding scale, and the generosity of those who are able and choose to pay more directly supports those who cannot. See the specific class page of the class you are interested in taking to review details of the sliding scale. We ask that you decide what amount you can contribute as a commitment and investment in your own process as well as helping to support financial health of the class and our ability to offer this kind of sliding scale. No one is ever turned away for financial reasons. For more information on the sliding scale and/or a payment plan option, please contact the teacher.
I would like to support the Charlotte Center for Mindfulness. How can I help?
As a nonprofit organization, the Charlotte Center for Mindfulness relies on the generosity of others to grow in its ability to offer mindfulness training and resources to the community. Financial donations are welcome. Charlotte Center for Mindfulness is fiscally sponsored project of Social Good Fund, which is a public nonprofit 501c3 organization recognized by the IRS. Your donation is tax-deductible to the fullest extent permissible by law. Please click here to make an online donation.
We also appreciate and benefit from volunteers who offer their skills and time. Some of the skills that are most helpful for us at this time are fundraising, nonprofit development, marketing (social media and beyond), and technology (e.g., website design). If you would like to volunteer, please contact Lindsay contact Lindsay Bridges at [email protected] or 704-299-0768.
We also appreciate and benefit from volunteers who offer their skills and time. Some of the skills that are most helpful for us at this time are fundraising, nonprofit development, marketing (social media and beyond), and technology (e.g., website design). If you would like to volunteer, please contact Lindsay contact Lindsay Bridges at [email protected] or 704-299-0768.
I feel that my mind is too busy to be successful at meditation. Is it worth it for someone like me to take a mindfulness class?
Many people feel that their minds are too busy to meditate. This comes from a misconception that meditation involves stopping thoughts. In reality, mindfulness meditation is about becoming aware of what’s happening in your mind and in your external environment, and then being more intentional in how you relate to your internal and external experiences. Oftentimes, the people with the busiest minds find the greatest benefit from the practice. Please contact the teacher of the class you are considering to discuss your concerns.
Do you offer one-on-one mindfulness training?
At this time, we do not offer individualized mindfulness training or coaching.
I registered for an MBSR orientation session, but don’t see how to register for the actual class. What do I need to do?
By registering for the orientation session, a spot is held for you in the actual 8-week MBSR class. No separate registration is required. At the orientation session, you will have an opportunity to decide if you want to register for the 8-week MBSR class.
I am on the waitlist for an upcoming MBSR class. What happens next?
If you are on the waitlist, you are still invited to attend the orientation session, but a spot may not be available for you for the 8-week class. Oftentimes a spot does become available. When this happens, those on the waitlist who attend the orientation are invited to sign up for the actual 8-week class. MBSR instructors will send detailed information on the location of the orientation session approximately one week prior to the session.