JCU mindfulness program aims to support veterans, health workers and first responders

James Cook University is inviting veterans, health workers, first responders and the broader community to the annual Mindful Warriors Retreat on Saturday, October 10, to help people who work in high-pressure environments to decompress and re-centre themselves.

The retreat will provide participants with the chance to try a variety of mindfulness practices, including yoga-based meditation, walking meditation, body-scan meditation, attention-focus meditation and mindful eating.

Associate Professor of Psychology Wendy Li, from the Mindfulness Lab @ JCU, will guide the mindfulness practices to help participants connect with nature, reduce stress and cultivate a sense of peace.

“Veterans, first responders and healthcare professionals have all had to deal with a lot of stress in their careers and this retreat is designed to provide a range of sessions that can help reduce some of that stress,” Associate Professor Li said.

“Participants can take these sessions at their own pace and they don’t need to have any experience with using mindfulness techniques to be part of the retreat. We welcome people at all levels of ability.”

Associate Professor Li said the retreat aimed to help foster connections and a sense of community while also encouraging participants to share experiences and support each other.

“Our research shows that mindfulness can be a very effective practice for improving mental health and wellbeing – particularly for those people who have worked in Defence, emergency services or the healthcare sector,” she said.

“It’s Queensland Mental Health Week and we think it is important to provide safe spaces where people can combat stress together, share experiences and support each other.”

The retreat is free to attend, with coffee, drinks and a barbeque provided. Participants are encouraged to bring a towel, blanket or yoga mat. The retreat will run from 8am to 12pm at Central Plaza on JCU’s Bebegu Yumba Campus in Douglas.

After the retreat, participants can also join monthly practice sessions to keep strengthening their mindfulness.