mindfulness

I think I’ve mentioned the fabulous work that the MacMillan cancer charity do before, and that I’ve been enjoying the tai chi sessions that they have been running.  These sessions have helped me with my co-ordination, balance and my confidence in general as they have got me out of my house and meeting new people.

So when MacMillan announced that they would be running a 3-week mindfulness course I eagerly signed up.

I’m now 2 weeks into the course and have enjoyed every minute of it.  As well as cancer patients, the course is open to care professionals linked by this disease and it’s interesting to share experiences with them.

I’ve practised mindfulness before.  Corinne bought me a CD and the excellent MacMillan nurses also visited me when I was an inpatient to take me through some mindfulness exercises.  We also explore some relaxation techniques following our tai chi sessions.

We’ve been encouraged to keep a journal throughout our course and after it has finished as well.  This I find very helpful particularly looking back at the material after the sessions have ended.

I don’t know if this will make me a better person or become more able to deal with difficulties but time alone will tell I guess.

If it helps me to sleep through the night it will have already been invaluable.