Event Details

About the Event

This retreat is full and we are taking waiting list. If you want to be on waiting list, contact Kateri at katerik@sandamiano.org or call her at 925-837-9141 ext. 315. Thank you.

About MBSR

Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) is an effective, scientifically researched method for reducing physical and psychological suffering while building resilience, balance and peace of mind.

Learning to practice mindfulness provides a way of relating directly with whatever is happening in your life, a way of taking charge of your life, of consciously and systematically noticing and responding to your own stress and pain, and to the challenges and demands of living. MBSR is a nonsectarian, scientifically researched approach that is in harmony with any faith-based tradition or even atheist and agnostic philosophy.

The course is delivered live online through Zoom. A hybrid online/ in-person retreat is offered at no extra charge for those who live close to the retreat center. Throughout the program, you will be working with the challenges and demands of your everyday life. Our trained and certified instructors will create a safe and supportive environment for this shared learning experience.

Benefits of MBSR

Since 1979, research at medical and research centers around the world suggests that MBSR can ‘positively and often profoundly affect participants’ lives

• Greater ability to manage stress, depression, and anxiety
• Better pain management and sleep
• Loosening of the grip of negative habits and thinking
• Improve your focus, resilience, and capacity to recover more quickly from challenges
• In 2022, a clinical study found MBSR was as effective as Lexapro in managing anxiety

Dates & Times

Saturday Program 9:00-11:30 AM
9/14 – 11/6/24

Wednesday Program 6:00-8:30 PM
9/18 – 11/13/24

Retreat for both programs – 11/2/24 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM

Class Instructor

Jerry Cambra is an Oakland, CA, native and has enjoyed personal and small group retreats at San Damiano for over 20 years. In the course of his journey as an MBSR practitioner Jerry has earned professional MBSR teaching certifications from University of Massachusetts and Brown University. He has guided over 400 participants through MBSR and trained a dozen instructors. Jerry partnered with San Damiano during Spring 2024 to offer MBSR to the San Damiano community.

Registration & Sign-up

1. Register and pay fees by contacting San Damiano either by phone  at 925-837-9141 ext. 315 or online.
2. Fill out a Health Profile at https://www.im2.info/san-damiano-landing-page.
3. Jerry will contact you by email to set up a short (15-minute) online information session on Zoom to prepare you for the program.
4. Please contact Jerry at jerry@im2.info if you have any questions about the registration process.

Cost

Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction: Inviting Peace & Ease into Your Life. Cost: $185; financial aid available. For Fall 2024, please select either the Saturday morning or Wednesday evening program.

Most MBSR programs cost between $300 and $750. We’re offering it at only $185. Please contact us at contactus@sandamiano.org if affordability is an issue. We are committed to providing access regardless of financial circumstances. Donations are gladly accepted!

Fall 2024 Dates:

Saturday Program 9:00AM to 11:30 AM

Orientation- 9/14

Session 1 – 9/21

Session 2 – 9/28

Session 3 – 10/5

Session 4 –10/12

Session 5 – 10/19

Session 6 – 10/26

Retreat – 11/2 – (From 9:00 am to 4;30 pm, on-site or in person at San Damiano Retreat and overnight optional)

Session 7- 11/9

Session 8 – 11/16

This online version of MBSR allows people from all over the world to have access to the benefits. The course is delivered live through online video conferencing, and you will engage with the teacher and interact with other participants through your computer screen and web camera during weekly class sessions.  Home assignments and guided meditation audio files are all available online.  The online platform brings everyone together within the virtual classroom from different time zones, and with diverse life experiences and perspectives from around the world. A live, in-person retreat is offered at no extra charge for those who live close to the retreat center.

Throughout the program, you will be consciously and systematically working with the challenges and demands of your everyday life. Our trained and certified instructors will create a safe and supportive environment for this work and learning through:

• Live class sessions using simple online meeting technology that is rich in experience and connection
• Systematic instruction in formal and informal MBSR mindfulness practices, including guided instruction and recordings to practice with at home
• Gentle stretching and mindful movement
• Group dialogue, with discussions offered to enhance awareness in everyday life
• The opportunity for one-on-one check-ins with instructors throughout the course
• Online resource materials, dedicated technical support, and opportunities for feedback

Class sizes are limited to facilitate group connection and conversation. A computer and high-speed internet connection are required.  Mobile devices such as phones and tablets, while not being ideal, are acceptable for these sessions.

Testimonials

(Vicki D.)

“I was not sleeping well, had high blood pressure, and overall not happy where I was in life. I found an MBSR course with Jerry Cambra that not only changed my perspective, but it caused me to experience major shifts in my life. Jerry gives you real-world tools to use daily, and explains the science behind the practice. If you are looking to reduce stress in your life, the MBSR course with Jerry is exactly what you need.”

(Sydney C.)

I was turned onto Imagine Mindfulness at a time in my life when I was feeling lost, unsure of myself, and depressed. This program gave me the tools to handle those life changes, the everyday challenges, and my day-to-day stressors. My life changed for the better after enrolling in the Imagine Mindfulness course, and I’m grateful everyday for the practices I’ve learned!