Be Calm Be Happy Course

Be Calm, Be Happy is a twelve hour course teaching mindfulness meditation, in the tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh, as an effective counter-balance to the stresses of life and as an opportunity to become happier.

Course Entry

£ 130

This is our standard rate.

Supporter

£ 175

If you are able to, please pay the supported rate so we can offer the course also to those on a lower income. Thank you for your generosity.

Concession

£ 95

We offer two places every course for those on a low income.

Course overview

Be Calm, Be Happy provides a gradual introduction to mindfulness and meditation in the Plum Village tradition and covers the key teachings on positive happy living over six sessions.

Each session includes guided mindfulness exercises and meditations, group discussions and practical exercises led by experienced facilitators in a warm, friendly atmosphere.

Course themes

Session 1: Stopping and calming
Session 2: Turning to the positive
Session 3: Loving communication
Session 4: Nourishing happiness
Session 5: Interdependence and community
Session 6: Guidelines for a happier life

Week 1: Stopping and calming

You’ll learn the importance of being present in the moment, how this can help to reduce stress and anxiety. We’ll learn simple breathing techniques to focus our attention and calm our minds.

Week 2: Turning to the Positive

Understanding our mind’s negativity bias and how to shift our focus from negative thoughts and emotions to positive ones, using gratitude journaling and appreciation of the conditions of happiness already available to us.

Week 3: Turning to the Positive

Learning how to communicate mindfully using deep listening and loving speech as a way to build better relationships with others.

Feedback from Course Participants

Who can attend?

This course is suitable for beginners, as well as those wishing to gain an overview of the key teachings and how they support each other. It is suitable for those of all faiths and none. Our course participants come from a wide range of backgrounds. Many of our participants are keen to learn new ways to look after their own wellbeing and to identify positive responses to challenging situations.

Course Leaders

Our Course Leaders are first and foremost practitioners committed to the Plum Village tradition. Having a deep understanding through their own personal practice of the benefits of these teachings, the Course Leaders have trained to deliver the course through in-house training and practice. Please see our separate webpage for an overview of the current Course Leaders.

Course formats

The course is taught in a number of formats including a six week in-person course, an online course and on a weekend retreat.

You can book our courses at http://plumvillageuk.eventbrite.com

What if I miss a class?

It is ideal if you can make all the classes as this way you will gain a sound foundation in mindfulness practice. If you have to miss a class and know ahead of time, do let your course leader know.

What further information will I receive?

You will receive “Joining Information” in a confirmation email once you have purchased your ticket. This will confirm the information on the class timings, and how to access the online course. You will receive a further email directly from the Course Facilitator in the week before the course starts, inviting you to a short pre-course zoom call.

What further information will I receive?

You will receive “Joining Information” in a confirmation email once you have purchased your ticket. This will confirm the information on the class timings, and how to access the online course. You will receive a further email directly from the Course Facilitator in the week before the course starts, inviting you to a short pre-course zoom call.