About PCFM
Prairie Centre for Mindfulness (PCFM) is located in the heart of Regina, Saskatchewan, a vibrant prairie city that is home to almost 250,000 people.
"You are the sky. Everything else is just the weather." - Pema Chödrön
Being human is not always easy. The sky is a beautiful metaphor for life as both are constantly changing, sometimes in sudden and unwanted ways. At the same time, we can be awestruck by a spectacular sunset or a rainbow after a storm. The same is true for our lives, though acknowledging this truth is not always easy. We want the sun to always shine and there to never be any rain on our parades. We want to always be happy and to never experience any sadness, pain or change.
When sudden, unwanted or unexpected changes occur, there can be a strong tendency to want to disconnect, numb out or completely avoid the moment. What if instead, we learned to curiously pay attention to the moment? What if instead, we cultivated the ability to be with whatever arises from moment to moment? What if instead, we learned to practice mindfulness?
In recent years, the term mindfulness has become a media buzz-word, which has stimulated high levels of interest in the concept and practices that serve to cultivate mindfulness. The practice of mindfulness is far from new. The seemingly relentless demands on our time, attention and energy can contribute to a sense of mindless disconnection from ourselves and others. Our innate longing to “come home” to ourselves … to feel connected to others … to relish in rich and meaningful moments … is becoming increasingly sensed and acknowledged.
The Prairie Centre for Mindfulness was founded in 2015 with the intention of building a community of people interested in cultivating mindfulness. Since that time, hundreds of people have participated in the courses, retreats, presentations, and other group learning and practice opportunities that have been offered. This includes the internationally-acclaimed eight week course, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR). You’re invited to explore all the information available on the website. Questions and comments are always welcome.
Registered Psychologist
Joanne Frederick
Joanne Frederick is a Registered Psychologist who has worked with individuals, groups and organizations in a variety of roles since 1995. Her work is guided by a passion for helping people find sustainable solutions to life challenges using a mindfulness-based approach. She is a dynamic teacher and presenter who blends her knowledge, skills, wisdom and experience with equal parts of warmth, humour and compassion.
A cancer diagnosis in 2003 dramatically changed the course and purpose of her life. After physically recovering from treatments, she struggled to manage feelings of anxiety and despair related to experiencing a life-threatening illness. She eventually discovered meditation and other mindfulness practices which provides a meaningful way for her to regain a sense of psychological steadiness. Since that time, she has integrated mindfulness practices into her life, both personally and professionally.
Joanne has completed the intensive requirements to teach Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) through the University of Massachusetts Medical School, Centre for Mindfulness. MBSR is an evidence-based course in which meditation, gentle yoga and other mindfulness practices are tools in learning how to use mind and body to do what no one else can do for you: take charge of your health and feel more in control of your life. It is taught around the world and is the gold standard of mindfulness-based programssss.
Physician
Dr. Ghazala Radwi
Dr. Ghazala Radwi is a physician, working in the field of Hematology and Transfusion Medicine, and a mindfulness practitioner, with a deep interest in the connection between mind and body with regards to achieving a wholesome state of health.
Several years ago, personal stressors and healthcare issues sparked an interest in mindfulness. Inspired by the clarity and direction she found as her mindset shifted, she decided to pursue formal training in various mindfulness programs including Mindful Practice and Awakening Joy.
Dr. Radwi is a strong proponent of empowering trainees and colleagues in healthcare with tools that lead to compassionate patient care, engaged teams and a fulfilling personal life. Having a keen interest in physician wellness, she has been facilitating mindfulness sessions for residents, trainees and colleagues.
Passionate about inspiring curiosity in fellow humans, she also offers general group mindfulness sessions and individual sessions, and has continued to do so online during the COVID-19 pandemic.
MBSR TEACHER
Jacki Woodworth
Jacki Woodworth has been practicing and studying yoga & mindfulness since 2006, and teaching both since 2010. Having worked in the field of social work for over 30 years, Jacki frequently saw the challenges stress can present for people. This witnessing of human struggle has honed a keen interest in working to reduce its effects.
A certified yoga and Mindfulness Instructor, Jacki’s teaching style is wise, clear and creative. Her classes explore learning and growth via the emotional, mental, physical and spiritual aspects of ourselves. She is especially proud to have trained through the University of Massachusetts Medical School Center for Mindfulness in Medicine, Health Care and Society, and be recognized as an Instructor of their internationally acclaimed 8 week-Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) course.
An experienced counselor, facilitator and teacher, Jacki is known for her gentle guiding ways, and her ability to create and hold safe, respectful space for students to explore the path home to self – where peace and gentle healing reside.