Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) is an internationally recognised 8-week programme that teaches practical ways to relate differently to stress, thoughts, and emotions.

The programme was developed by Jon Kabat-Zinn at the University of Massachusetts Medical School and has been widely used in healthcare, education, and community settings around the world.

Rather than trying to eliminate stress or difficult experiences, MBSR helps participants develop greater awareness of what is happening in the present moment and learn how to respond with more clarity and balance.

Many people attend the course to support their own wellbeing, while others are interested in how mindfulness may inform their work in healthcare, education, or other helping professions.

You may find this course helpful if you:

• Often feel stressed, overwhelmed, or mentally busy

• Find it difficult to switch off or rest

• Would like practical ways to relate differently to difficult thoughts and emotions

• Notice a tendency to avoid difficult experiences or get caught in worry

• Feel your mind often becomes scattered or restless

• Are curious about mindfulness but want structured guidance

• Prefer learning in a supportive in-person group

• Work in a people-focused or demanding role and want to develop greater resilience and awareness

Over the course of eight weeks, participants are introduced to a range of mindfulness practices, including:

• Guided meditation practices

• Body awareness practices

• Gentle mindful movement

• Opportunities for reflection and group inquiry

• Ways to bring mindfulness into everyday activities

Participants receive:

• Guided audio practices

• Course workbook

• Support for establishing a regular practice

Home practice is an important part of the programme and participants are encouraged to practice around 30–45 minutes per day. 

Many participants find that learning mindfulness in a group deepens the experience and provides encouragement for ongoing practice.

Classes will take place Monday evenings from 7:30 pm to 10:00 pm. 

Location: Cork Lotus Yoga, Carey's Lane, Cork City

Start: 21st September

End: 16th November

*** There won't be class on the Bank Holiday 26th October.

Retreat day: As part of the course, we will have a day retreat on 7th November at The Well Retreat Centre, Carrightwohill. 

Blanca Pages is a certified mindfulness teacher with a background in psychology and advanced training in neuropsychology and wellbeing.

She has maintained a personal practice in yoga and meditation for over a decade, which continues to inform her teaching.

Her approach combines psychological understanding with mindfulness practice, supporting people in developing greater awareness of thoughts, emotions, and bodily experience.

Her work includes:

• Teaching mindfulness and wellbeing programmes in community and workplace settings

• Guiding participants in developing practical, sustainable mindfulness skills

• Integrating simple movement, meditation, and gentle breath practices

• Creating calm, supportive spaces where mindfulness can be explored at an accessible pace

Blanca is particularly interested in the relationship between attention, emotional regulation, and embodied awareness, and in helping people integrate mindfulness into the realities of everyday life.

The course price includes all 8 weekly sessions, the retreat day, and course materials.

• Early bird price (until 15th July): €350

• Full price (after 15th July): €380

A €100 deposit is required to reserve your place.

Full payment is due by 15th July for the early bird rate, or by 15th September for the full price.

Cancellation policy: The €100 deposit secures your place and is non-refundable. If you need to cancel after completing payment, refunds of the remaining balance are available up to two weeks before the course begins. After this point, refunds may be possible if the place can be filled.

Please only register if you are reasonably confident you can attend the majority of sessions.

Places are limited to around 14 participants to maintain a supportive and reflective learning environment.

After you submit the registration form, I will contact you to arrange a short phone conversation. This is an opportunity to ask any questions and ensure that the course feels like a good fit for you at this time.

To support accessibility, one concession place is available for someone who may not otherwise be able to attend. Please feel free to reach out if this would be helpful.

To register, complete the registration form and I will be in touch to arrange the phone call.

Payment can be made via Revolut, PayPal, or bank transfer.

*** If you’re considering joining but would like to ask a question first, you are very welcome to get in touch.

Do I need previous meditation experience?

No. The course is suitable for beginners as well as people who have some experience with meditation but would like a more structured programme.

What if I miss a session?

It’s best to attend all sessions if possible, as each week builds on the previous one. If you miss a session, materials and guidance will still be available to help you continue with the course.

How much home practice is required?

Participants are encouraged to practice mindfulness at home for around 30–45 minutes per day using guided audio recordings. This regular practice is an important part of the learning process.

Is mindfulness connected to religion?

The MBSR programme is secular and evidence-based. While mindfulness practices have historical roots in contemplative traditions, the course is taught in a practical and accessible way for people of any background.

Is this course suitable if I am currently experiencing significant mental health difficulties?

Mindfulness can be supportive for many people, but it may not be appropriate for everyone at every time. For this reason, there will be a short conversation with the teacher before the course begins to ensure the programme is a good fit.

How do I register?

After registering your interest, you will be invited to a short phone conversation with the teacher. This is an opportunity to ask questions and make sure the course feels right for you.