Caring for the Caregivers Programme

It is no surprise that not only are  youth workers and those in the caregiver profession often susceptible to stress, anxiety, physical strain and a diminished quality of life (McBee, 2003), but that tending to their own needs and mental well-being can be difficult. This doesn’t mean that the resources are not there, rather access to programmes designed to help with burnout can be problematic due to financial, geographical and bureaucratic barriers.

There have been many programmes developed to help those working with the vulnerable cope with the stress and the demands of their jobs. These programmes vary, depending on whether they are specific to the type of illness/disability/ or youth care setting, or whether they are more general and wide reaching.

In recent years, there have been a number of studies conducted that focus on mindfulness practices and mindfulness based interventions (MBI) as a possible tool for caregivers/youth workers with positive results (Lewis et.al, 2012; Carlson et.al, 2006; Wahbeh et.al, 2010; Zylowska 2015; McBee, 2011). In fact, one study (Carlson et, al, 2008) that randomly assigned 78 caregivers to either an 8 week MBI or a CCES programme (caregiver education support), found that the MBI was more effective with improving overall mental well-being and stress levels. This suggests that mindfulness and MBIs are a viable approach to reduce burnout.

The Sanctuary has been developing and delivering mindfulness and meditation courses, since its inception in 1998. We have worked with many different social care and youth organizations with a vision to help and support those most in need. As part of this vision, we have designed the Mindfully Compassionate Wellbeing Programme for those working in the caring field.

Workshops & Courses

Our workshops are designed to include a variety of methodologies, including presentation, guided meditation practices, discussions, question and answers, demonstrations, small and large group exercises.

This course will provide participants the opportunity to experience mindfulness and compassion practices for themselves with a view to integrating them into daily life as a means of well-being and resilience.

Some themes explored:

1. What is Mindfulness? Why Practice it?
2. The Importance of Attitude of Acceptance
3. Changing the Voice We Speak to Ourselves
4. The Importance of Intention & Motivation
5. Embodiment- the Mind/Body connection with kindness (The Eyes that we look with)
6. Cultivating Gratitude as a Practice
7. Mindful Movement
8. PolyVagul Theory (Tend and Befriend)

Participants will be given recorded practices to use (post course).

We have 3 different options:

1. 8 week option with online component for accessibility
2. 1 Day workshop (in the Sanctuary or offsite)
3. ½ Day workshop (in the Sanctuary or offsite)

Mindfulness Caring for the Caregiver 8 week Self Care Programme

– Introductory Self- Compassion- Based Mindfulness Wellbeing day at the Sanctuary from 10am- 4pm

-8 week MBLC (Mindfulness Based Living Course) held online via Zoom

– Concluding Day of Practice at the Sanctuary from 10am- 4pm

Fee: €250 per person for non profit

Mindfulness Caring for the Caregiver  1Day Self Care Programme for 16-20 people

– Introductory Self- Compassion- Based Mindfulness Wellbeing day at the Sanctuary or offsite from 10am- 4pm

Fee: €760/ €620 for non profit

Mindfulness Caring for the Caregiver  ½ Day Self Care Programme for 16-20 people

– Introductory Self- Compassion- Based Mindfulness Wellbeing day at the Sanctuary or offsite from 10am- 2pm

Fee: €400/ 390 for non profit

**Teas and coffee included.

***Catered lunch can be arranged for an extra charge.

Caregivers Testimonial Video