Dialectical Living’s workshop “Intro to Mindful Living” with Toronto Mad Pride went off without a hitch! Thank to Lois D., a lovely Mad Pride volunteer, and Tim, we were able to provide our workshop at Ryerson U. Ryerson U generously served refreshments and technical support (always necessary when Power Point presentations are involved). When first walking into the classroom, my expectations were quite low. I was optimistically hoping for four people to show up. Alas, we got a full house! Between twenty-five and thirty people were sitting in that hot classroom. It was amazing. 

Linda and Karen facilitated the workshop, by referring to their own experiences and also their expertise in the subject, in a very friendly and open manner. It was clear that all who participated felt safe as they listened to their hosts guide various mindfulness exercises. I didn’t sense any apprehension in the room, in fact, people were full of questions after the session and couldn’t wait to learn more about DBT, Dialectical Living and mindfulness.

I have to admit, I was nervous before the group started. My main concern was having an engaged audience. Karen and Linda both succeeded in connecting with the audience in an authentic and deeply personal way. In hearing their own stories about mindfulness, we were all inspired. What I took away from the experience is mindfulness is a practice, which means the journey to mindfulness is in constant motion. Every day I must remind myself that I always have more to learn.

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