‘Supporting people to learn how to step out of ‘automatic pilot’ and engage more fully with the present moment’ (Conwy Mind)
Conwy Mind in North Wales was set up 40 years ago. It is a local, independent mental health charity that is part of the 100-strong network of local Mind organisations across Wales and England. Its primary commitment is to deliver inclusive and accessible services to people experiencing poor mental health including anxiety, depression, stress and loneliness, as well as for anyone else wanting to maintain their wellbeing.
Well-researched evidence shows that mindfulness-based approaches can improve health and wellbeing and help build resilience. With this in mind, over the last few years Conwy Mind has been integrating mindfulness-based approaches and activities into its projects.
Initially these were offered as a part of the Parabl 1:1 counselling service and now mindfulness has slowly spread through the project as more funding has become available.
Originally, staff focused on delivering the 8-week Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) courses. More recently mindfulness practitioner Kathy has started offering taster sessions and a 4 week ‘Introduction to Mindfulness’ programme which typically includes practices such as the body scan, breathing space, mindful movement and the ‘raisin exercise’. Other pilot courses for Conwy Mind (‘ACT with Yoga’ and ‘Self-Care for Unpaid Carers’) have included mindfulness practices.
“The course was exactly what I was looking for, learning strategies to manage my anxiety. I learned so much from it, managing intrusive and negative thoughts, loads of strategies. I wish I had done it sooner, it was really helpful, life changing really, a brilliant course. Being able to access something like that for free is amazing.”
In addition to the more formal courses, Conwy Mind offers yoga, stretching classes, wellbeing walks, creative dance and art sessions, which all include an element of mindfulness and encourage moving at your own pace and developing self-compassion and acceptance.
“Life changing! Gave me an insight into who I am. Met some marvellous people.”
Its group activities incorporate breathing exercises, time to observe and take notice of surroundings and support people to explore different physical sensations, such as the warmth of the sun, feeling your feet as you walk or clay on your hands. They focus more deeply on a specific activity or technique, using meditative processes and repetition, to help people to feel more grounded and present.
“I have enjoyed meeting people and been feeling more positive about getting out to groups generally.”
A priority for Conwy Mind is to nurture mindful communities by making mindfulness accessible, inclusive and part of everyday life rather than something confined to formal courses. This is reflected by Conwy Mind’s central mascot. Hand crocheted ‘Seren the Seal’ stands as an invitation to anyone to boost their wellbeing simply by walking mindfully along the shore, pausing to take notice of their surroundings and look for the local seals that were her inspiration.
“What we love most about the seals is they align with all the 5 Ways to Wellbeing; like us, seals need and like connection, they gather in groups and look out for one another.” (Conwy Mind)
The organisation works in community venues at locations across Conwy, taking a holistic approach to mindfulness, embedding it in a range of their services so people can engage in a way that feels comfortable and meaningful for them.
Staff and volunteers create spaces where individuals can connect with others, share experiences and develop a sense of belonging. Through these shared activities, participants build supportive relationships while developing skills such as awareness of the present, self-compassion and acceptance. People are provided with recordings and the tools to continue their practice outside of the sessions and there is the opportunity to join further sessions and activities which integrate mindfulness and continue participants’ learning.
Key changes people have highlighted as a result of the groups include:
~Improved physical health, encouraged them to move more and felt more flexible
~Connectedness through meeting new people
~Sense of purpose and routine, with practices they can continue in day-to-day life
~Improved mental health and mood, feeling calmer and more focussed
In the future the organisation would like to secure further funding for a more consistent delivery of classes and groups. They would like to offer creative sessions with an element of mindfulness and would greatly appreciate the opportunity to establish a stronger community with follow up sessions and sessions for past attendees of courses.
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