Mindfulness and mindfulness-based stress reduction

Foundation courses are for those who would like an in-depth introduction to mindfulness or would like to refresh their practice and learn new approaches. In each class, participants are taught a mindfulness technique and asked to practice it during the class and at home between weekly meetings. Classes include discussions led by the instructor as well as the option of communication and small group exercises. Participants are taught to adapt techniques to accomplish their own personal goals. By the end of the course, you will be prepared to continue and cultivate your own practice independently.

Each class builds upon the previous week’s lesson, so it’s important to plan to attend all eight sessions as well as the full-day weekend retreat. Every participant is asked to commit to attending the sessions, practice the techniques learned in class for at least 30 minutes each day, and follow along with weekly homework assignments.

Intensive practice is a powerful way to deepen your mindfulness and meditation experience and integrate it into your life. We invite you to practice with us on retreat at a peaceful residential retreat center among a supportive group of mindfulness practitioners.

Join us at Pendle Hill to more fully explore the potential of mindfulness and meditation. More sustained practice demonstrates how mindfulness can open your heart and mind to the brilliance of the world around you.

Introductory workshops and eight-week foundation courses are open to the public and don’t require previous mindfulness experience. You must be at least 18 years old to participate. Our advanced programs are designed for people who’ve completed the eight-week course or its equivalent.

Registration typically opens approximately six weeks before the start of a session. We announce the start of enrollment via email. All registrations and payments must be completed online. We can’t take registrations or payments over the phone. Enrollment closes about 48 hours before the start of a program.

There are several financial assistance options available, including work-study positions, scholarships, and installment plans. We can also work with you to create a payment plan that works with your budget.

Course fees are 100% refundable until the start of the class. We will offer credit toward a future class if there is a need to withdraw from the course before the end of the third week.

We don’t process or accept insurance through our office. We recommend you speak with your primary care physician about a diagnostic code and a referral to a stress management course. If you receive a diagnostic code, contact your insurance company to find out if they cover this program. We can’t provide diagnostic codes.

We do accept budget transfers within the University of Pennsylvania Health System. We can provide attendance verification and/or payment receipts if needed for reimbursement.

The Penn Program for Mindfulness does not offer CE credits at this time. We can provide a certificate of completion for your employer or to add to your LinkedIn profile/CV.

We no longer offer mindfulness teacher training but would be happy to direct you to available resources. Please contact us at mindfulnes@pennmedicine.upenn.edu.