Event Details

About the Event

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. This starts with cultivating present-moment attention in an open, nonjudgmental way. MBSR is a nonsectarian, scientifically researched approach that is in harmony with any faith-based tradition or even atheist and agnostic philosophy.

The Benefits of MBSR

Scientific research at medical and research centers around the world suggests that MBSR can
 positively and often profoundly affect participants’ lives.

• Stress reduction
• Decreased medical symptoms
• Improved self-care
• Greater ability to manage anxiety and depression
• Loosening of the grip of negative habits and thinking
• Improvement in symptoms of burnout
• Clearer recognition of when your attitude or mood is beginning to change so you can become less reactive
• Discovery that difficult and unwanted thoughts and feelings can be seen from an altogether different perspective – a perspective that brings with it a sense of compassion and less judgment to the suffering you are experiencing
• Improved sense of well-being and learning how to be present and appreciate the simple pleasures of everyday life, connect with yourself, and the experience of being alive

Info / How to Sign Up:

After you have signed up you will receive information to fill out a Health Profile. Finally, Jerry will contact you by email to set up a short (15-minute) online information session on Zoom to prepare you for the program. Please contact Jerry at jerry@imaginemindfulness.org if you have any questions.

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

About Jerry Cambra

Heart arrhythmia, anxiety, and a racing mind were my reward for 45 years of a driven, stressful lifestyle. I strived for perfection and accomplishment in everything I did and didn’t count the cost. Medication did little to help, but Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) changed this. At first, I practiced MBSR to help with my arrhythmia and then it became important for focus, relaxation, and awareness. I teach MBSR so that others, especially those under 40, may learn to live more skillfully and with ease. Walking through life unaware means that we miss so many important things.

I’m currently a Senior Certified MBSR Instructor which allows me to provide support for those seeking a better life. I trained with the UMass Center for Mindfulness, the birthplace of MBSR. Jon Kabat-Zinn, Saki Santorelli, Judson Brewer, Florence Melo-Meyer, and Bob Stahl are my foundational teachers.

In 2016, my friend Tim (a Registered Nurse) and I designed one of the first online MBSR programs. We pioneered a proprietary way to deliver MBSR online that has a 90% completion rate. In 2021, we, and others collaborated to create an Instructor Development Program that provides low-cost training for a diverse population.

Since 1979, MBSR’s evidence-based training has provided the following benefits:

• Approach your life with more composure, energy, understanding and enthusiasm
• Develop the ability to cope more effectively with both short-term and long-term stressful situations, gaining insight into response rather than reaction
• Enhance your ability to manage and reduce pain levels
• Improve your focus, resilience, and capacity to recover more quickly from challenging events
• Learn how to access and cultivate a natural capacity to actively engage in caring for yourself and find greater balance, ease, and peace of mind
• Through mindfulness training we assist you to participate in your own self-care and contribute to your personal growth. Your concentration, creativity, and compassion can grow along the way.

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!