Self-Kindness Meditation Evening

Kindness, compassion and acceptance can be difficult to give to others, especially in challenging situations. But it is often even more difficult to give kindness, compassion and acceptance to ourselves. For many of us it is like an under-developed life skill that we didn’t get a chance to learn at school, or even at home, because our parents may have been too critical or distant or too focused on themselves. But regardless of what we missed out on earlier in life, as adults we can rebuild this essential supportive and caring relationship with ourselves from within.

This evening will be a combination of guided meditation and group discussion and we will focus on practical techniques to access and cultivate self-kindness within yourself.

The session will be tailored to the needs of the participants and is suitable for all levels - from complete beginners to experienced practitioners who want to enjoy an evening of group practice.

Depending on the needs of the group we will cover topics like:

• Befriending the inner critic,
• Connecting with the inner child,
• Cultivating supportive self-talk,
• Embracing negative emotions,
• Overcoming self-loathing,
• Understanding addictions,
• Appreciating your body,
• How to create lasting wellness habits.

Val has been teaching Tai Chi and meditation for two decades and developed Self-Kindness Meditation during the covid lockdowns. Initially offering it online on Zoom and later at a popular class in Grafton. Many people improved their relationship with themselves and those who practiced longer have completely transformed their inner critic into a supportive ally.

ABOUT THIS EVENT:

There will be a mix of teaching, guided practice, Q&A and group discussion. You will practice skills that you can take away and continue practicing on your own and applying in your everyday life.

It is important to arrive on time - the gates will be closed from 6pm and you will not be able to enter. (Having people walking in during meditation is too disruptive.)

There will be some snacks to nibble on during the break (including dark chocolate!) Tap water and glasses will be provided or BYO water bottle.

The event will finish around 8:30pm but we will keep the venue open until 9pm or so for those who want to socialise informally, continue the conversations and connect with like-minded people.

COST: $25 good income / $20 medium income / $15 low income

RESERVING YOUR SPOT:

Bank transfer to Val, 38-9002-0523922-12 with references: “SKM-22JUL” and your RSVP list name on meetup.

Ideally, send the bank transfer when you RSVP to reserve your spot.

Or you can RSVP and pay closer to the time, but please note - if the event is getting full we will be giving priority to pre-paid reservations.

Cancellations policy for reservations:

• If you cancel attendance and give us at least 24 hours notice: your reservation fee can be transferred to a future event.
• If we postpone the event: your reservation fee can be transferred to a future event OR refunded in full upon your request.

EVENT RULES:

• GERMS - do not come when sick or at risk of carrying covid.
• ARRIVE ON TIME - we close the doors when the event begins - NO LATE ENTRY.
• AIRPLANE MODE - on your phones & cellular devices during meetup.
• SOBER - no smoking / alcohol / drugs before coming.
• RESPECT - be respectful towards others & the venue.

DIRECTIONS:

> CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE PARKING & DIRECTIONS MAP <

Address: 3 / 88 Cook Street, Auckland CBD.

The building is on Cook St, opposite a huge open air car park. Use the rear entrance:

1. Walk in through the open car gate on the left side of the building,
2. Turn right,
3. It is the third unit from the right (Unit 3) accessed via the elevated walkway.

EVENING PARKING:

• Street parking is FREE from 6pm. You can start parking from 5:45pm thanks to the 10 min “grace period” to ensure you get a free spot.
• A big stretch of yellow dash line directly opposite 88 Cook St (normally bus parking) becomes free parking after 6:00pm.

Our venue is easy to access by car being within 400m of all motorway ramps.

DRIVING FROM THE NORTH:

Exit on Cook Street, you have arrived.

FROM WEST, SOUTH, EAST:

Exit on Nelson Street, take the leftmost lane which slopes down, turn left onto Cook Street.