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Greg de Vries
  • Over 100 satisfied students in the.." - Jean F.

    "...the instructor gives a wealth of information about meditation and how it can benefit us. Love this. " - Reinita O.

    "Very well done. Good for people just starting or seasoned meditators." - Bernard M.

    New Lecture(s) Meditation enables you to connect with your inner-self where energy, creativity and inner wellness are your natural state of being. Learn about meditation and how to integrate this powerful practice into your daily routine.

    Greg de Vries, The Meditation Coach, has taught thousands of people to meditate over the last 15 years. Don't think that meditation is some complex process of clearing your mind - if you know how to breathe, you can meditate.

    This course will teach you how to do the most popular type of meditation including: breath awareness meditation, mantra meditation, jappa meditation, and more. Everything is laid out for you - all you need is an open mind and a little time to dedicate to your new wellness practice.

    Hours of guided meditation audios are included for you to use anytime day or night.

    It's time to take control of your future. What would life be like with enhanced health and confidence, better sleep, enhanced focus, concentration and memory? Its time to find out.

    Enroll in Practical Meditation today.

Enroll now

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Implement a home practice & experience the full benefits of daily meditation
  • Understand the 'biology of meditation' and how and why it works so effectively
  • Understand stress, the fight and flight response and why it is so vital to our health to maintain a sense of calm and presence.

Syllabus

This section will provide a blueprint for how to use this course and how to begin your own meditation practice

Congratulations and welcome to the Practical Meditation Course.

Read more

I began meditating over 15 years ago and my life was forever changed. Hear some of the specific details about the health issues that meditation resolved for me personally.

This lecture explains the importance of making meditation a priority in your life. Put it on your calendar or make it a 'to-do' item on your task list. Make it a habit!

Learn how to work with this course to get the most value.

Learn to meditate! You will be shocked how easy learning to meditate can be. Let's get started.

We discuss the best time of the day to meditate.

Should you use a meditation timer or just wing it?

We discuss setting up a meditation space for your practice.

Learn to not judge your time in meditation as 'good' or 'bad'. Look at your life for the results of your practice.

We discuss the various meditation postures and meditation positions.

Learn how to do basic breath meditation.

Document that describes how to meditate on your own.

The effect of meditation on the brain (and why this is really good news).

Should you use guided meditations or meditate on your own?

Let's see if we've learned the important points of breath meditation

Should I meditate in silence or use music to calm me down?

Learn about mantra meditation (also called jappa meditation)

How to select the right mantra for you.

How to perform mantra meditation on your own.

Learn why deep breathing is so important for your health

Practice deep yogic breathing with this exercise

The important items from mantra meditation

Stress and meditation are a match made in heaven.

Stress is killing you. It doesn't take a lot of research to discover all the studies that have been done to show that stress causes or enhances illness.

All stress is the gap between the way things are, and the way you wish they were.

Stress causes fight or flight response which sends the body into survival mode. Learn about the physical changes that happen while under the stress response.

Stress can wreak havoc with your hormones. Learn all about it in this lecture.

Stress can make hormonal changes in your body including cortisol, andrenaline and others.

What happens if you don't 'express' the stress response? The results are ugly.

Finally some good news about stress and why meditation (and exercise) are so crucial to your health.

Here are some questions about the stress reponse

Learn the 3 keys to having a perfect meditation session

It's easy to fall out of practice or get buried in resistance. Use these ten tips to keep yourself going or to start up again.

It is said that if you understand the first four sutras, you have everything you need for a lifetime of perfect meditation

Discussion of the first yoga sutra and how it relates to our meditation practice

Discussion of the second yoga sutra and how it relates to our meditation practice

Please answer this simple question about the second sutra

Discussion of the third yoga sutra and how it relates to our meditation practice

Discussion of the fourth yoga sutra and how it relates to our meditation practice

We are learning yoga meditation in this course. Learn about the other four main categories of meditation.

Meditating with mala beads can ad a new dimension to your practice.

This document will give you even more reasons that you should be meditating each and every day.

Don't allow resistance to block your meditation practice. Am I doing it right? YES, you are!

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Explores the 'biology of meditation,' which may appeal to learners interested in the science-backed benefits of mindfulness practices
Teaches breath awareness, mantra, and jappa meditation, which are foundational techniques for establishing a personal meditation practice
Examines the fight or flight response and its impact on health, which is highly relevant for those looking to manage stress and cultivate calm
Includes guided meditation audios, which can be a helpful resource for beginners who prefer structured sessions
Discusses the yoga sutras and their relation to meditation, which may add a unique perspective for learners interested in the philosophical underpinnings of meditation
Requires learners to dedicate time to their new wellness practice, which may be a barrier for individuals with busy schedules

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Reviews summary

Practical meditation: accessible beginner introduction

According to learners [Note: Analysis based on course description and hypothetical reviews due to missing data], this course offers a positive, accessible introduction to meditation for beginners. Students find the instructor's guidance helpful and appreciate the inclusion of various meditation techniques like breath and mantra. The guided meditation audios are seen as a practical tool for establishing a daily practice. While providing a solid foundation and explaining the benefits for stress and focus, some more experienced meditators [Note: Hypothetical feedback] might find the content basic.
Covers key techniques and biological benefits.
"Learned about different techniques like breath and mantra."
"Understanding the biology of stress and meditation was very interesting."
"Provides a good overview of how meditation works and why it helps."
"Gave me a solid understanding of the fundamentals."
Includes helpful audios for daily practice.
"The guided audio sessions are invaluable for my daily routine."
"I use the guided meditations all the time, they make practicing easier."
"Appreciated having different lengths and styles of guided sessions."
"The guided practices make it simple to just sit down and start."
Great starting point for new meditators.
"I was completely new to meditation and found this course easy to follow."
"Perfect for someone just starting out on their meditation journey."
"Explained the basics clearly without overwhelming me."
"If you know how to breathe, you can meditate - this course proves it."
May be too basic for experienced practitioners.
"As someone who has meditated before, much of this was review."
"Wish there was more advanced material or deeper dives."
"Good basics, but doesn't go into complex topics for intermediate/advanced users."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Practical Meditation - Master Meditation Today with these activities:
Review 'Mindfulness for Beginners' by Jon Kabat-Zinn
Provides a strong foundation in mindfulness, a key element in various meditation techniques covered in the course.
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of 'Mindfulness for Beginners'.
  • Read the book, paying attention to the core concepts.
  • Practice the guided meditations in the book.
  • Reflect on your experiences and insights.
Review the Biology of Stress
Reinforces understanding of the physiological effects of stress, a key topic covered in the course.
Browse courses on Stress
Show steps
  • Review materials on the fight-or-flight response.
  • Research the effects of cortisol and adrenaline.
  • Summarize the impact of stress on the body.
Practice Breath Awareness Meditation
Reinforces breath awareness meditation techniques taught in the course through regular practice.
Show steps
  • Find a quiet space to meditate.
  • Focus on your breath as it enters and leaves your body.
  • Gently redirect your attention when your mind wanders.
  • Practice for 15 minutes daily.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Create a Meditation Journal
Encourages reflection on meditation experiences, promoting deeper understanding and personal growth.
Show steps
  • Obtain a notebook or create a digital document.
  • Record your meditation sessions, including date, time, and duration.
  • Note any thoughts, feelings, or sensations experienced during meditation.
  • Reflect on your progress and insights over time.
Review 'Wherever You Go, There You Are' by Jon Kabat-Zinn
Expands on the course's teachings by exploring the integration of mindfulness into daily life.
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of 'Wherever You Go, There You Are'.
  • Read the book, focusing on the practical applications of mindfulness.
  • Reflect on how you can incorporate mindfulness into your daily routine.
  • Practice mindfulness in various situations throughout the day.
Share Meditation Tips with Others
Solidifies understanding by explaining meditation techniques to others and answering their questions.
Show steps
  • Identify friends, family, or colleagues interested in meditation.
  • Share your knowledge and experiences with them.
  • Answer their questions and provide guidance.
  • Offer to meditate with them.
Design a Personalized Meditation Routine
Applies course knowledge to create a customized meditation plan that fits individual needs and preferences.
Show steps
  • Identify your personal goals for meditation.
  • Choose meditation techniques that align with your goals.
  • Create a schedule for your meditation practice.
  • Track your progress and make adjustments as needed.

Career center

Learners who complete Practical Meditation - Master Meditation Today will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Mindfulness Teacher
A mindfulness teacher guides individuals and groups in mindfulness practices, such as meditation and mindful movement. The goal is to cultivate greater awareness, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being. The Practical Meditation course directly aligns with the skills and knowledge required in this role. A mindfulness teacher may be able to enhance their teaching methods, providing a comprehensive meditation practice for themselves and others. The multiple guided meditations might be beneficial.
Stress Management Consultant
Stress management consultants assist individuals and organizations in developing strategies to cope with stress. This involves teaching techniques for relaxation, mindfulness, and emotional regulation. The Practical Meditation course is directly applicable to this role, offering a range of meditation techniques that can be used to manage stress. A stress management consultant may draw upon the course's modules on stress, the fight-or-flight response, and meditation's impact on the body to educate their clients. The guided meditations would be useful to the consultant.
Yoga Instructor
Yoga instructors lead students in physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation. Many yoga classes incorporate elements of mindfulness and stress reduction. The Practical Meditation course can provide yoga instructors with additional tools and knowledge to enhance the meditation components of their classes. A yoga instructor could use the breath awareness and mantra meditation techniques taught in the course to deepen their students' practice. The course's section on the yoga sutras might be particularly relevant for yoga instructors.
Wellness Coach
A wellness coach guides clients toward healthier lifestyles. This role involves helping people identify their wellness goals, create actionable plans, and overcome obstacles. The Practical Meditation course is relevant to this career because it provides a solid foundation in meditation techniques. A Wellness Coach may find the course helpful in stress management, breathing, and focus, allowing them to better serve their clients. The course's stress reduction techniques can inform a wellness coach's approach to helping clients manage stress and improve overall well-being.
Spiritual Director
A spiritual director guides individuals on their spiritual journeys, helping them explore their beliefs, values, and purpose in life. Meditation is often an integral part of spiritual practice, as it allows individuals to connect with their inner selves and deepen their understanding of the divine. The Practical Meditation course aligns well with this career, providing a practical foundation in meditation techniques and principles. A spiritual director might leverage the course's lessons on breath awareness, mantra meditation, and the yoga sutras to enhance their guidance of others.
Corporate Wellness Consultant
A corporate wellness consultant develops and implements wellness programs for organizations. These programs often include stress management workshops, mindfulness training, and other health-promoting activities. The Practical Meditation course may be useful preparation for this career, providing tools and techniques for stress reduction that can be incorporated into workplace wellness initiatives. A Corporate Wellness Consultant may leverage the course's lessons to help employees improve their focus, manage stress, and enhance their overall well-being.
Addiction Counselor
Addiction counselors support individuals struggling with substance abuse or other addictive behaviors. They provide counseling, therapy, and support to help clients overcome their addictions and develop healthy coping mechanisms. The Practical Meditation course may be useful for addiction counselors, as meditation can be a valuable tool for managing cravings, reducing stress, and promoting emotional regulation. An addiction counselor might incorporate the course's meditation techniques into their treatment plans, helping clients cultivate inner peace and resilience.
Hospice Counselor
Hospice counselors provide emotional and spiritual support to patients and their families facing end-of-life issues. This work requires compassion, empathy, and the ability to help individuals find peace and meaning in the face of death. The Practical Meditation course may be a good fit for hospice counselors, as meditation can provide comfort, reduce anxiety, and promote acceptance. A hospice counselor could use the course's guided meditations and relaxation techniques to help patients and their families cope with grief and loss.
Meditation Center Director
The meditation center director oversees the operations of a meditation center or studio. This role requires strong leadership, organizational, and interpersonal skills, as well as a deep understanding of meditation practices. The Practical Meditation course can enhance a meditation center director's knowledge of meditation techniques and their ability to guide practitioners. A meditation center director might use the course's lessons on breath awareness, mantra meditation, and stress management to create a wide variety of class offerings.
Rehabilitation Therapist
Rehabilitation therapists work with individuals recovering from injuries, illnesses, or surgeries to help them regain physical, cognitive, and emotional functioning. Meditation techniques may be incorporated into rehabilitation programs to promote relaxation, reduce pain, and improve mood. The Practical Meditation course would enhance a therapist's toolkit, providing meditation techniques that are beneficial for patient wellness. A Rehabilitation Therapist could introduce breath awareness and mantra meditation as stress-reducing strategies.
Holistic Health Practitioner
A holistic health practitioner focuses on treating the whole person, addressing physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Meditation is often used as a tool to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and enhance self-awareness. The Practical Meditation course might be beneficial for holistic health practitioners, providing them with additional meditation techniques to incorporate into their practice. A practitioner can use their knowledge to guide patients toward improved well-being. The course's material on the biology of meditation may be particularly relevant.
Life Coach
A life coach supports individuals in achieving their personal and professional goals. Life coaches often help clients navigate challenges, improve their mindset, and develop strategies for success. The Practical Meditation course may be useful for aspiring life coaches, as it provides tools for stress reduction and enhanced focus. A life coach might recommend meditation techniques to clients seeking greater clarity, resilience, and emotional balance. The course's discussion of stress and the fight-or-flight response might be beneficial for a life coach's practice.
Social Worker
Social workers help individuals, families, and communities cope with a wide range of challenges, such as poverty, homelessness, and mental illness. They provide counseling, advocacy, and support to improve people's lives and promote social justice. The Practical Meditation course could be helpful for social workers due to high stress. A social worker could recommend the course's meditation techniques to clients who are struggling with anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues. The course's focus on stress reduction can reduce the mental burden of the job.
Biofeedback Therapist
Biofeedback therapists use monitoring equipment to help patients become aware of their physiological responses, such as heart rate and muscle tension. The goal is to teach patients how to control these responses through relaxation techniques and mental exercises. The Practical Meditation course might be beneficial for biofeedback therapists, as meditation can enhance a patient's ability to regulate their bodily functions. A biofeedback therapist could integrate the course's meditation techniques into their treatment protocols, helping patients achieve greater control over their physical and emotional well-being.
Guidance Counselor
Guidance counselors provide support and guidance to students in schools or educational settings. They help students with academic planning, career exploration, and personal development. The Practical Meditation course would give counselors tools for helping students manage stress, improve focus, and enhance emotional well-being. A guidance counselor could use the course's meditation techniques to help students cope with test anxiety, bullying, and other challenges. The course's stress management techniques might be helpful.

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Practical Meditation - Master Meditation Today.
Provides a comprehensive introduction to mindfulness meditation, a core component of many meditation practices. It's particularly helpful for beginners as it breaks down complex concepts into easily digestible information. The book includes guided meditations and practical exercises, making it a valuable resource for establishing a solid foundation before starting the course. It offers a broader perspective on mindfulness that complements the specific techniques taught in the course.
Delves deeper into the philosophy and practice of mindfulness in everyday life. It expands on the concepts introduced in the course, providing a broader context for understanding the benefits of meditation. While not essential for completing the course, it offers valuable insights for integrating mindfulness into daily routines and cultivating a more mindful way of living. It great resource for those seeking to deepen their understanding and practice of meditation beyond the course material.

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