The Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) retreat will teach the practice of mindfulness meditation (present moment, non-judgmental awareness) and its application to stress reduction, self-reflection and the mobilization of inner resources to support health, healing, spiritual enrichment and personal growth. Retreat participants will experience guidance in mindfulness meditation skills, mindful yoga practice, group dialogue*, periods of extended silence, rest and relaxation. Opportunities for individual meetings with the retreat director for additional instruction, guidance and/or support will be provided. The retreat is modeled on the Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) principles developed by Jon Kabat-Zinn and Saki Santorelli at the Center for Mindfulness in the University of Massachusetts Medical School. Beginners and experienced participants are welcome!

Note: All participants will have the option to participate or to refrain from certain exercises according to their own comfort and safety practices.

About Mark Dannenfelser, MA, LPC

Mark is the founding director of the Mindfulness Center of Atlanta (2009). He is a certified Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction teacher, a licensed professional counselor, a certified spiritual director, a commissioned presenter of the Centering Prayer method, and a registered yoga teacher. Mark holds the Master of Arts Degree in Counseling Psychology from Montclair University, the Master of Arts Degree in Pastoral Studies from Spring Hill College, and the Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Ramapo College. He has worked in parish ministry, addiction in-patient and out-patient treatment programs, public and private school counseling, and as the program coordinator for Contemplative Outreach International. Mark’s professional interest is in working at the point of intersection between mind-body practices and healing, especially in the areas of trauma (including religious trauma), substance use disorder, prolonged grief, anxiety, depression and chronic stress. Mark offers mindfulness retreats and spiritual direction at the Ignatius House.