Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction
(MBSR)
A Thorough Introduction to Mindfulness Practice
This program is a comprehensive, well-structured introduction to mindfulness practice in everyday life. It follows the nationally acclaimed Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction model developed by Jon Kabat-Zinn, presenting mindfulness as a universal practice for people of any (or no) religious background.
The program includes instruction and practice in sitting meditation, gentle yoga, body awareness meditation, and daily-life applications of mindfulness. It also includes information about stress and relaxation. The program enables participants to develop their own base in mindfulness practice integrated into everyday life.
The course includes eight weekly classes, an individual interview with the instructor, a Saturday retreat, the book Full Catastrophe Living by Jon Kabat-Zinn, four mp3s, and handouts.
The course fee is $350. 27 CEUs are available for nurses, social workers, psychologists, and educators. Payment plans and limited need-based support are available. Please contact the Center to discuss.
If you are interested in participating, please sign up as early as possible so there will be time to schedule the individual interview before the first class.
Facilitators
Joen O'Neal with Ekyo Suzan Nelson
Joen O'Neal is an ordained Zen priest and Guiding Teacher of Compassionate Ocean Zen Center. She began teaching this program in 1994 after completing a training for professionals with Jon Kabat-Zinn, founder of the MBSR program. Joen has practiced meditation extensively since the ‘70s, including training with Thich Nhat Hanh and Dainin Katagiri, her root teacher.
Ekyo Suzan Nelson is a long-time meditation practitioner at Minnesota Zen Meditation Center. Joen and Ekyo will lead the summer course together in 2026.
Registration
You may register online and make a secure payment using the button below.
Payment plans and limited need-based support are available. Please contact the Center to discuss. Mail-in registration forms are also available.
More Information
Fee
$350
The course includes eight two-and-a-half hour classes led by Genpo Michael O'Neal, an individual interview with the teacher, a Saturday retreat, the book Full Catastrophe Living by Jon Kabat-Zinn, four mp3s, and weekly handouts.
Enrollment Information
Enrollment for classes is limited, and early registration is encouraged.
Withdrawals from the course after the first class will receive a refund of 75% of the course fee (excluding the materials fee); after the second class, 50%; after the third class, 25%. No refunds will be made after the fourth class.
Continuing Education Units
27 CEUS are available for nurses, social workers, psychologists, and educators.
Future MBSR Course Dates
Fall 2026: In-Person
Sep. 22 – Nov. 10, 2026
Retreat: Nov. 7, 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Winter 2027: Online Via Zoom
Jan. 19 – March 9, 2026
Retreat: March 6, 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Spring 2027: In-Person
March 30 – May 18, 2027
Retreat: May 13, 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Flyer