Mindfulness is a meditative practice that allows one to cultivate more focused attention on the present moment without judgment. Sustained practice--cultivating more mindfulness through a variety of meditation techniques--has the power to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression significantly. However, focusing on the individual experience only, without challenging the systemic infrastructures that we are immersed in, would be shortsighted. Relaxing the parasympathetic nervous system and challenging our automatic negative thoughts is only half of the battle if we are not, also challenging the issues within our societal norms and systems. Working on our mental health is as important individually as it is collectively. Perhaps, as we continue to improve our individual and internal health, we can then have a better chance of affecting collective and external environments. 

Energy psychology modalities, such as reiki, meditation, and cognitive behavioral therapy, are some excellent examples of approaches to managing and improving our overall mental health. The intersection between mental, physical, spiritual, and social/public health is precisely a social worker’s wheelhouse. Social workers can also work to make mindfulness approaches more accessible throughout our communities. Meditation is now being practiced nationwide in schools and prisons, and reiki is now a common complimentary service available to patients undergoing intensive care and treatments in hospitals around the nation.

Practicing yoga physically, mentally, and spiritually can help us become more sensitive to the changes in the world around us. Being more sensitive to these nuances and complexities is a crucial part of being calmer and more empathetic as well as being a better listener and more invested in justice.  

Join us in a self-care practice where we’ll discuss mindfulness and meditation, the connection to social justice and the importance of your mental health to self-care practice. During the keynote, Rio E. Comaduran '13 MSW will lead us in a short demonstration of sound meditation, utilizing a guided body scan meditation and the use of a variety of instruments to support relaxation. Following the keynote, Akilah Barr, community activist and yoga instructor, will lead us into a beginner-friendly, restorative yoga session. Light refreshments, including a smoothie bowl bar and toppings from Playa Bowls West Hartford will be provided, with time for socializing to conclude the program.

Please bring your own yoga mat and any supplies you'd like (blanket, bolsters, and blocks) to participate. A limited number of chairs will be available for those who would like to participate in the restorative yoga session in a chair. 

Participants must for 18+. Please read the waiver carefully.

This program is open to UConn Nation and friends of UConn.