Collective Mindfulness is an environment and process wherein individuals who participate hold each other jointly responsible for continuously evaluating the environment (Kor et al., 2024).
3 mindfulness practice communities
Mindfulness practice communities are groups dedicated to the collective cultivation of mindfulness, where individuals engage in practices aimed at enhancing present-moment awareness and non-judgmental observation of thoughts and emotions (Alvear, 2022).
Plum Village tradition
The Plum Village tradition, founded by Thich Nhat Hanh, is a prominent mindfulness practice community that has significantly influenced the West. Thich Nhat Hanh, a Vietnamese Zen master, introduced mindfulness practices that integrate seamlessly into daily life, making them accessible to people from various backgrounds. His teachings, rooted in Buddhist principles yet non-sectarian, emphasize mindfulness in everyday activities.
One of Nhat Hanh’s books, Peace is Every Step, is a key resource that details these practices in an engaging and straightforward manner. Research highlights the global impact of Plum Village, noting its expansion from a modest settlement in France to a worldwide network of mindfulness centres (Dorbaire, 2023).
True Peace Toronto
True Peace Toronto, a mindfulness community at the University of Toronto, meets at the Multi-Faith Centre on Mondays and online on Thursdays. Grounded in Thich Nhat Hanh’s Zen Buddhist teachings, it provides a supportive environment for students and professionals. The community’s guided meditations and discussions help deepen mindfulness practice and foster a sense of shared purpose.
Vipassana meditation retreats
Vipassana meditation retreats offer an intensive approach to mindfulness, allowing participants to immerse in meditation and self-reflection. Ranging from one day to several weeks, these retreats help individuals recharge and gain deeper insights. Research by Cohen et al. (2017) showed even short retreats can improve psychological outcomes, making them beneficial for those with demanding schedules, like caregivers.
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