Presence practice series to start Jan. 4
HealTree will offer a presence practice series with sessions set for 9 to 10 a.m., Wednesdays, Jan. 4, 11, 18 and 25, at 1632 Savannah Road, Suite 10, Lewes.
Also known as mindfulness, a presence practice is the ability to be fully present in the moment, without judgment. People who practice present-moment awareness benefit mentally, emotionally and physically.
Through a presence practice, people can regulate their stress response and reduce the harmful effects of stress, which include immune system suppression and cellular aging. This practice also has the power to change brain structures, with changes occuring in the prefrontal cortex, amygdala, hippocampus and right anterior insula, and the default mode network. These changes in brain structures can change thought and reaction patterns, and nervous system responses.
In addition, practicing mindfulness can protect the brain from decline and neurological diseases. Mindfulness-based interventions have been shown to decrease symptoms of psychological and physical ailments. Overall, present-moment awareness practices have been shown through research to decrease stress, intensity of anxiety and depression symptoms; improve focus, sleep, emotional regulation, self-awareness and immune function; reduce perception of pain; and increase overall well-being.
Participants will practice three different exercises each week. Individuals may choose to attend all four sessions or drop in for one class. Cost is $25 per session; there is an $80 prepayment discount for all four sessions.
This series will be guided by Maxine Middlebrook. She often refers to herself as a fellow healing human, and she knows firsthand the benefits of authentic and holistic mental health care and wellness. Through a variety of both personal and professional experiences, Middlebrook has developed a great appreciation for the human experience. She is a certified mindfulness teacher through the MCT program and holds a master’s degree in management from Wilmington University.
To sign up and learn more, go to healtree.co or call 302-827-4683.
