After many online Zoom training courses our first live course in Scotland finally happened in September 2021 at The Royal Botanical Gardens in Edinburgh. Set in our own private space deep in the gardens this beautiful venue, enjoying a backdrop of plants and trees from all around the world, was simply perfect for mindfulness meditation. Participants on the course were able to take in the gardens through their senses, learning and practicing in harmony with nature. The sky was blue and the sun shone (mostly) as the students enjoyed the experience of practicing outdoors in one of the most peaceful and tranquil places in the city. Even on the rainy days the sounds of the pitter patter of raindrops on the roof of our room enhanced our sense of wellbeing and helped us to immerse ourselves in the learning experience.
The students were a diverse group of medical professionals, physiatrists, therapists, charity workers and those interested in teaching mindfulness, all bringing their own rich experiences and knowledge to the course, engaging and generously sharing and supporting each other.
To add to our enjoyment of the week, we were treated to an impromptu visit from HRH Prince of Wales, who was visiting the gardens with The Duchess of Cornwall.
The Prince of Wales or The Duke of Rothsay as he is known in Scotland, was interested to know what we were doing in the gardens and curious about the course and the benefits of mindfulness. Our keen students were quick to suggest he try some breathing focus!
Their Royal Highnesses The Duke and The Duchess of Rothesay were visiting as part of the 350th anniversary of the gardens and planted a young Sorbus pallescens from China during the visit.
We are looking forward to welcoming more mindfulness meditation students to our 2022 live courses bringing our usual eclectic mixture of learning and practice. We cannot promise a Royal visitor, but we can promise an interesting, education and fun week leading to a qualification in mindfulness teaching with plenty of time to enjoy making new friends and contacts and the grounded earthing experience of the lovely Royal Botanical Gardens Edinburgh.
