
<\/div>\n
Our Approach to Mindfulness<\/b><\/h3>\n
In alignment with the Trust for the Meditation Process, the Mindfulness Ambassador program\u2019s approach to meditation is influenced by Buddhist mindfulness meditation traditions as interpreted by Jon Kabat Zinn and others who were creators of the Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction approach, Vipassana, and Thich Nhat Hanh\u2019s Zen tradition. In short, the program utilizes Jon Kabat Zinn\u2019s definition of mindfulness: paying attention, in the present moment, in a particular way, and without judgment.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nIt is important that student meditation leaders and new meditators understand that thoughts are not the enemy – the mind will continue to think, but it is our relationship with those thoughts that is important. The form of meditation we promulgate is silent and non-discursive, often breath-based, with limited guidance by the trained student practitioners.<\/span><\/p>\n
<\/div>\n
Training Process<\/b><\/h3>\n
Up to ten students who apply to become a Mindfulness Ambassador will be selected. These Mindfulness Ambassadors in training will need to register for the 2-credit course Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) within the Contemplative Studies minor (CNST-240). The course is 8 weeks in length and the ambassadors will build a consistent meditation practice and learn mindfulness fundamentals.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nIn fall 2026, Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (CNST-240) will occur on Tuesday nights from 6:05 to 9:35 pm. In spring 2027, Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (CNST-240) will occur on Wednesday evenings from 6:05 to 9:35 pm.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nAfter the 8 week course ends in the springs, ambassadors will have three follow-up training sessions during the standard class time for MBSR (dates TBD). This meditation guidance training module will introduce Ambassadors to the pedagogy of mindfulness including using invitational rather than command language, minimizing triggers for those with trauma, and avoiding suggestions about what the participants should be feeling. Ambassadors will learn to introduce silent meditation and use breath cues. These sessions will also focus on peer to peer engagement and education about mindfulness.<\/span><\/p>\nOnly first year, second year and third year students should apply to this role, so they can have one full academic year as a Mindfulness Ambassador.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n
<\/div>\n
Program Requirements Following Certification\u00a0<\/b><\/h3>\n
Central to our requirements are a strong and continued personal mindfulness and meditation practice, acquisition of personal mindfulness skills, and an understanding of the foundations of meditation traditions.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nTo remain an Ambassador, students will be required to lead<\/span> a minimum of three mindful meditation and education sessions<\/b> each semester (six each academic year). Students can bring their Mindfulness Ambassador knowledge to student clubs and organizations they are already a part of, academic courses and the wellness room.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nAfter one semester or more of guiding mediation, students will write a reflection on the changes in their perspectives as they have taken on a leadership role.<\/span><\/p>\n