BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//The Open Heart Project - ECPv6.16.2//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://openheartproject.com X-WR-CALDESC:Events for The Open Heart Project REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/New_York BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20140309T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20141102T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20150308T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20151101T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20160313T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20161106T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20170312T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20171105T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20180311T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20181104T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20190310T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20191103T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20200308T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20201101T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20210314T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20211107T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20220313T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20221106T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20230312T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20231105T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20240310T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20241103T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20250309T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20251102T060000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240907T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240907T120000 DTSTAMP:20260520T004904 CREATED:20240423T162509Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240423T163831Z UID:10014519-1725703200-1725710400@openheartproject.com SUMMARY:Open Heart Project Meditation Teacher Training DESCRIPTION:Learn more about the fall Meditation Teacher Training here. URL:https://openheartproject.com/event/open-heart-project-meditation-teacher-training/ CATEGORIES:eCourse,Susan's Calendar ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://openheartproject.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/MTT-2024.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240101 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240122 DTSTAMP:20260520T004904 CREATED:20231218T213009Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240108T190811Z UID:10014502-1704067200-1705881599@openheartproject.com SUMMARY:21 Day Meditation Challenge 2024 DESCRIPTION:$54 or FREE if you join the Open Heart Project Sangha\n\n \n  \nWe long for change.\nAs we enter a new year\, it is natural to think of what we want to create\, change\, or leave behind. It is a time to dream and imagine what could be\, who we want to become\, and how we can create more love and goodness in our lives and in the world. Whether you just want less stress (who doesn’t?!) or a way to create peace on earth for all beings (who doesn’t?!)\, there is one tool that can help you\, perhaps better than any other: \nA strong\, steady meditation practice.\nAs we practice it in the Open Heart Project\, meditation is much more than a self-improvement technology. It is a way to stabilize your mind in the midst of chaos to remain focused\, strong\, and kind. It is a path to love. \nAs we sit in simplicity and silence\, we soften. As we soften\, we become vulnerable. Vulnerability is the root of love\, not to mention insight\, creativity\, presence\, and even courage. These are the seeds we plant with our practice. \nYou don’t have to head to a mountaintop or commit to many hours a day of meditation practice (although both are awesome) to reap these benefits. You just have to sit down. Every day. For 10-20 minutes. And that is exactly what we will do together from Jan 1-21. \nJoin me for a 21-day meditation challenge.\nAlmost everyone I have ever spoken to about their meditation practice has trouble practicing consistently. Hey\, me too! It’s not as simple as “making” yourself do it. We need more than individual resolve. Teachings and community provide the needed support and the 21-day challenge aims to provide both. \nWhen you sign up\, you’ll receive: \n\nEach morning\, a daily guided audio meditation delivered right to your inbox. We will practice for 10 minutes a day during week one\, 15 minutes a day in week two and 20 minutes a day in week three. I think you’ll be surprised at how much easier it all is when all you have to do is click “play.”\nTwo live gatherings to check-in\, discuss questions\, and hear your reflections.\n\nJanuary 11 @ 12:00 pm -1:00 pm ET\nJanuary 25 @ 2:00 pm -1:00 pm ET\n\n\nA PDF guide to the program that lays out the steps to create a home practice.\n21 short bonus videos\, one per day\, each with a “meditation tip.”\n\nBy the end of this 21-day period\, you will have a meditation practice that you can count on. \nI really look forward to practicing with you. \nCost: $54\nRegistration is now closed. If you’re looking for year-round meditation support\, consider joining the Open Heart Project sangha.\nQuestions? Please email us here. URL:https://openheartproject.com/event/21-day-meditation-challenge-2024/ CATEGORIES:eCourse,Susan's Calendar END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20230318 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20230625 DTSTAMP:20260520T004904 CREATED:20230119T201022Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230119T201022Z UID:10013713-1679097600-1687651199@openheartproject.com SUMMARY:Buddhist Immersion & Meditation Teacher Training 2023 DESCRIPTION:  \nPlease click here for the full curriculum and course details. URL:https://openheartproject.com/event/buddhist-immersion-meditation-teacher-training-2023/ CATEGORIES:eCourse END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20230101 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20230122 DTSTAMP:20260520T004904 CREATED:20221212T001728Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231130T140733Z UID:10013711-1672531200-1674345599@openheartproject.com SUMMARY:21 Day Meditation Challenge 2023 DESCRIPTION:$54 or FREE if you join the Open Heart Project Sangha\n\n\n \n  \nChange is in the air.\nAs we enter a new year\, it is natural to think of what we want to create\, change\, or leave behind. It is a time to dream and imagine what could be\, who we want to become\, and how we can create more love and goodness in our lives and in the world. Whether you just want less stress (who doesn’t?!) or a way to create peace on earth for all beings (who doesn’t?!)\, there is one tool that can help you\, perhaps better than any other: \nBegin with 10 minutes a day to create a powerful foundation.\nAs we practice it in the Open Heart Project\, meditation is much more than a self-improvement technique. It is a way to stabilize your mind in the midst of chaos to remain focused\, strong\, and kind. It is a path to love. \nAs we sit in simplicity and silence\, we soften. As we soften\, we become vulnerable. Vulnerability is the root of love\, not to mention insight\, creativity\, presence\, and even courage. These are the seeds we plant with our practice. \nYou don’t have to head to a mountaintop or commit to many hours a day of meditation practice (although both are awesome) to reap these benefits. You just have to sit down. Every day. For 10-20 minutes. \nJoin me for a 21-day meditation challenge.\nAlmost everyone I have ever spoken to about their meditation practice has trouble practicing consistently. Hey\, me too! It’s not as simple as “making” yourself do it. We need more than individual resolve. Teachings and community are required and the 21-day challenge aims to provide both. \nWhen you sign up\, you’ll receive: \n\nEach morning\, a daily guided audio meditation delivered right to your inbox. We will practice for 10 minutes a day during week one\, 15 minutes a day in week two and 20 minutes a day in week three. I think you’ll be surprised at how much easier it all is when all you have to do is click “play.” NOTE: Beginning with week three\, we will sit together in silence.\nA live gathering to see how it went\, discuss questions\, and hear your reflections on January 22nd at 6:30 pm ET.\nA PDF guide to the program that lays out the steps to create a home practice.\nTwo bonus videos: A 20-minute talk that explains what meditation is\, what it is not\, the misconceptions to avoid\, and the real-life\, practical results you can expect and a 15-minute talk discussing how to bring meditation off the cushion and into your everyday life (which is the whole point).\n\nBy the end of this 21-day period\, you will have a meditation practice that you can count on. I really look forward to practicing with you. \nCost: $54\nRegistration includes the OHP newsletter with essays and practices for the journey. \n\n \n Register Here $54.00 \n \n \nNOTE: This program is free for Open Heart Project Sangha members. Membership costs $27 a month (or $270 for the year) and offers continuous support in the form of daily practice opportunities\, online teachings\, and a wildly supportive community in which you may participate (or not) as much as you like. 24/7. I would love to see you there!\n \nQuestions? Please email us here.\nSANGHA MEMBERS: Please click the orange FREE (SANGHA) button below to register. URL:https://openheartproject.com/event/21-day-meditation-challenge-2023/ CATEGORIES:eCourse,Susan's Calendar END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20200808T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20200808T130000 DTSTAMP:20260520T004904 CREATED:20200714T174330Z LAST-MODIFIED:20210402T164718Z UID:10014475-1596880800-1596891600@openheartproject.com SUMMARY:Start Here Now: An Introduction to Meditation DESCRIPTION:This workshop will be taped\, so if you can’t attend live\, we’ll send  you a link to the recording. \n  \nI’ve been a student of meditation for almost 25 years and I’ve had the honor of teaching meditation to literally tens of thousands of students from all over the world. I am also the New York Times bestselling author of 9 books\, including Start Here Now: An Open-Hearted Guide to the Path and Practice of Meditation and The Four Noble Truths of Love: Buddhist Wisdom for Modern Relationships. \nFrom all of these experiences\, I’ve had the opportunity to learn what really supports us to begin meditating and\, more important\, to continue meditating. \nIn this 3-hour program\, I will share the actions you can take right now to begin your own practice and the three factors that create consistency. \nWe will learn: \n\nWhat meditation is\nWhat it is not\nThe 3 most common misconceptions\nHow to meditate\nThe correct posture\nHow to set up a home practice\nHow to make your practice sustainable\nAnswers to the most frequently asked questions\n\nSchedule: 10:00 am – 1:00 pm ET online via Zoom \nDate: August 8th \nPrice: $20.00 \nThe program will be recorded\, so if you can’t attend the live class we’ll send you a link to the recording.  Course access is available in perpetuity.\nPlease use this Time Zone Converter to find out what time the program is being taught where you live. You can use Boston as the course city. \nRegistration includes access to my newsletter with ongoing support for your spiritual journey. \n\n \n Register Here $20.00 \n \n \n  \nQuestions? Please contact my assistant Lisa here. URL:https://openheartproject.com/event/start-here-now-an-introduction-to-meditation/ CATEGORIES:eCourse,Susan's Calendar END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20191026T110000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20191026T160000 DTSTAMP:20260520T004904 CREATED:20181226T220600Z LAST-MODIFIED:20191021T180126Z UID:10014413-1572087600-1572105600@openheartproject.com SUMMARY:Fearless Creativity: No More Resistance DESCRIPTION:This workshop will be taped\, so if you can’t attend live\, we’ll send the recording to you.\n \n \nSo\, you’re a writer. But the writing\, it’s just not coming. At least on the level that you know\, deep down\, you are capable of. \nWhat if there was an unlock key? \nWhat if there was a way to tap into a fiercely mindful state and access the hidden reservoir of creativity to write like never before. Turns out\, there is. \nI know this because every time I teach “Fearless Creativity: A Meditation and Writing Retreat” (which I’ve offered for over a decade)\, participants leave kind of blown away by what they are able to produce using the very simple process I teach. \nThey discover a way to go beyond doubt and fear. \nOver the years\, I’ve received emails from people who want to attend a retreat but can’t afford the time or money to travel to Colorado where I have taught this program every December for most of the last decade. \nSo I decided to do something about it. \nOn Saturday October 26th\, I’m offering a one-day online version of this program. I don’t know when I will teach this again. Why? I’m working on a new book myself! There’s not a lot of free time and I just don’t want to promise something that may not happen again\, if at all. \nThis experience is capped at 150 people in order to ensure we are creating something really special together and spots will be awarded on a first-come\, first-served basis. \nIf you are one of the 150 participants (and I hope you will be!)\, you’ll learn that you are a writer…because you will write your heart out. \n\nYou will discover the one thing you need to do in order to write consistently.\nWe’ll identify what is missing from your writing life that could make the process so much easier.\nYou will learn a 3-step technique that is basically guaranteed to make words come out\, and with a level of ease you’ve never before experienced. I’ve taught this technique to hundreds of people and all I can say is that there is something magical in this formula.\n\nEveryone (everyone!) thinks they lack the discipline to write…and to meditate. This workshop will prove to you that you do not lack anything\, you simply have not set up the right environment\, cultivated the right state of mind\, and discovered a process that actually works. That is what you’ll get in our time together\, and what you’ll take with you to keep the momentum going. \nSCHEDULE: \n11:00 – 11:30 AM ET — talk on meditation and writing; intro 3-step process \n11:30 – 11:45 AM ET — intro to meditation\, meditation practice \n11:45 – 12:15 PM ET — q&a \n12:15 – 12:45 PM ET — break \n12:45 – 1:15 PM ET — do first two steps: short sit (10 minutes) free write (20 minutes) \n1:15 – 3:30 PM ET — personal writing session \n3:30 – 4:00 PM ET —  bringing it home \nIt happens on October 26 from 11 am – 4pm ET and the investment is $99. \nHere’s how to secure your spot: \nRegister for $99.00 \nIf you’re in the Open Heart Project\, the program is free. Just click the button below to reserve your spot. \nIf you’d like to join the Open Heart Project Sangha (which includes this program) for $27 a month\, please click here.  \nThe program will be recorded\, so if you can’t attend the live class\, we’ll send you a link to the recording.\nRegistration includes access to my newsletter with ongoing support for your spiritual journey. \n  URL:https://openheartproject.com/event/fc/ CATEGORIES:eCourse END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20181226 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20190101 DTSTAMP:20260520T004904 CREATED:20180906T213836Z LAST-MODIFIED:20181228T160626Z UID:10014402-1545782400-1546300799@openheartproject.com SUMMARY:Building a Mindful New Year DESCRIPTION:A free online program\nDec 26 – Dec 31\, 2018 at 7:00 pm ET\n6 Transcendent Themes / 6 Buddhist Teachers / 6 Meditations to Guide You into 2019\nIt’s been a hell of a year. \nThere has been turmoil\, hope\, and a deeper conversation about what really matters more than ever before. December is the time of year when thoughts naturally turn toward what we want to create going forward. \nBut how? \nAccording to Buddhist thought\, there are only six skills that you need to cultivate to bring more joy\, peace\, and bravery into the world. They are called the six paramitas (or transcendent actions): \nGenerosity \nDiscipline \nPatience \nExertion \nMeditation \nWisdom \nThe Open Heart Project has invited a collection of accomplished Buddhist teachers to teach us about these powerful actions\, one each between December 26 – 31. \nEach day at 7:00 p.m. ET\, a different amazing teacher will lead a 45-minute session to explore one of the paramitas. We will start with generosity on December 26th and end with wisdom on December 31st. From Zen to Vipassana to Tibetan and other Buddhist lineages\, you will hear teachings from a variety of perspectives. Each class will begin with an opening talk\, followed by a guided meditation and a question and answer period. (You will be able to type your questions into a chat screen.) \nYou are invited to drop into one or all sessions. Each one will be recorded and accessible for two weeks. Together\, these wonderful teachers will help you enter 2019 with confidence. \nOn December 25th\, we will email a link to you that will work for all of the sessions. \n\nSign Up for Building a Mindful New Year\n\nEmail Address\n\n\n\n  \nSchedule \nDecember 26\nGenerosity\n7:00 p.m with Pema Khandro \nDecember 27\nDiscipline\n7:00 p.m with Susan Piver \nDecember 28\nPatience\n7:00 p.m with Kate Johnson \nDecember 29\nExertion\n7:00 p.m with Kevin Townley \nDecember 30\nMeditation\n7:00 p.m with Sokuzan \nDecember 31\nWisdom\n7:00 p.m with Nick Kranz URL:https://openheartproject.com/event/building-a-mindful-new-year/ CATEGORIES:eCourse END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20180921 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20181121 DTSTAMP:20260520T004904 CREATED:20180420T034826Z LAST-MODIFIED:20181108T145729Z UID:10014383-1537488000-1542758399@openheartproject.com SUMMARY:Meditation Instructor Training Program: Fall 2018 - SOLD OUT DESCRIPTION:BECOME A MEDITATION INSTRUCTOR – SOLD OUT\nA Training Program Presented by The Open Heart Project\nSeptember 21 – November 20\, 2018\n\n \nA 9-week online training for:\ncoaches\nyoga teachers\ntherapists\ntrainers\nchange agents\nanyone who wants to take a deep dive into meditation practice for greater wisdom\, compassion\, and confidence\n  \n\n\nIn this one-of-a-kind online program\, you will:\n\nDevelop a skill that will set you apart from others in your field. \nLearn from trained meditation teachers to offer this ancient technique with confidence. \nSupport your clients to create lasting change.\nStabilize your own mindfulness practice to be of greater benefit to others.\nAttract clients who are interested in mindfulness.\nRun additional classes at your studio or in your practice.\nExperience the profound benefits of this ancient practice to create more happiness for yourself and others.  The Open Heart Project’s Meditation Instructor Training Program has been a gift! Through this program\, I have grown in my own personal practice and have received the knowledge and encouragement to share this simple yet profound technique with others. I am certain that the experience of this program will continue to benefit me in ways I have yet to see for years to come. –Jaysen W.\n\n\nCEUS FOR COACHES and YOGA TEACHERS\nOur program has been recognized by the International Coaching Federation. Federation members may claim 47.5 CEUS (15 core competency and 32.5 resource development) toward maintaining their coaching certification. \n  \n  \n \n  \nCurrent Registered Yoga Teachers (RYT) with Yoga Alliance may register 47.5 Non-Contact Hours as part of their Continuing Education \n  \n  \n\nYOUR TEACHERS\n \nSusan Piver is a Buddhist teacher and the New York Times bestselling author of nine books. Her new book\, The Four Noble Truths of Love: Buddhist Wisdom for Modern Relationships\, was published in June 2018. A student of Buddhism since 1995\, she graduated from a Buddhist seminary in 2004 and was authorized to teach meditation in the Shambhala Buddhist lineage in 2005. \nIn 2011\, Piver launched The Open Heart Project\, an online meditation community with nearly 20\,000 members who practice together and explore ways to bring spiritual values such as kindness\, genuineness and fearlessness to everyday life. \n  \n  \n  \n \nJenna Hollenstein\, MS\, RD\, CDN\, is a writer\, nutrition therapist\, mindfulness teacher and Open Heart Project Meditation Guide. \nShe is a Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor who works with individual clients and small groups. She is the author of Understanding Dietary Supplements\, a handy guide to the evaluation and use of vitamins\, minerals\, herbs\, and botanicals for both consumers and clinicians\, and more recently the memoir Drinking to Distraction. Her third book\, Eat to Love: A Mindful Guide to Transform your Relationship with Food\, Body\, and Life\, will be released in January\, 2019. \n  \n  \nSusan and Jenna discuss the program:\n \n \n\n\nABOUT THE PROGRAM\n \nMindfulness meditation is now a cultural phenomenon. It may appear that teaching meditation is a simple thing—what is so complicated about sitting down and breathing?! However\, 2600 years of mindfulness-awareness practice has shown us that though the technique is simple\, the results it produces are not. A skillful meditation teacher has knowledge of how to guide others as this ancient practice takes root. This program will help you to become that guide. \nYou can’t find this kind of training anywhere else online. It is a one-of-a-kind program specifically constructed for those who want to offer meditation instruction to individuals and small groups as part of their professional offering. It was developed by Susan Piver\, Buddhist teacher and founder of the Open Heart Project\, and Jenna Hollenstein\, a meditation guide and nutrition therapist. Here is what sets this training apart:\n \n\nIt is live and in-person; no pre-recorded material for you to figure out on your own\nIt is taught by deeply trained meditators with a combined 30 years of experience\nIt is unapologetically spiritual–meditation is not presented as self-improvement but as a means to access wisdom\, compassion\, and confidence\nThe curriculum is rooted in Buddhist wisdom; there is nothing new-agey about it\nIt is crafted specifically for those who want to offer meditation instruction as part of their professional offering as yoga teachers\, coaches\, counselors\, and so on\nEach student has the opportunity for a one-to-one consultation with Susan or Jenna\nOnce the program is completed\, you are not left on your own. There is an active alumni program that meets once a week for ongoing support\n\nIn our nine weeks together\, we will really get to know each other. We will support you to navigate the obstacles and develop a strong personal practice. Through weekly talks\, readings\, group discussions\, reading assignments\, mentoring\, and giving instruction to each other\, you will learn to teach the meditation technique clearly\, answer the most frequently asked questions with confidence\, gain insight into the teacher-student relationship\, and guide others to explore their potential with the support of mindfulness. \nUpon successful completion of the program\, you will receive a certificate confirming that you have been trained by the Open Heart Project to teach mindfulness-awareness meditation in the Buddhist tradition. \n  \n\nLEARNING OBJECTIVES\nThe foundation of the Open Heart Project Meditation Instructor Training program is two-fold: \nTo support you to develop a strong personal practice and a personal understanding of the guiding principles of mindfulness and awareness as the necessary foundation for sharing the practice with others. \nTo explore the particulars of offering the practice responsibly\, setting appropriate boundaries\, understanding what the practice can and cannot help with\, and how to support others as their practice develops. \nThis program is not about becoming a spiritual teacher. It is about learning to impart this ancient technique responsibly\, kindly\, and skillfully. \n  \n\nThis program has been transformational. Susan and Jenna’s ability to transmit an ancient practice through a modern online format is unparalleled. I felt connected to the practice\, the teachers\, and the community of fellow students the entire time through weekly teachings\, check-ins\, mentoring\, and private discussion forums. I’m so grateful to have been a part of this training and feel confident in my abilities to share it with others moving forward. –Angela B. \n\n\n\nCLASS SCHEDULE\n\n28 hours of in-person class time plus 19.5 hours of homework\, reading\, and personal daily meditation practice over 9 weeks.\nClasses will be held on nine consecutive Tuesdays from 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm ET. Each class is recorded. Led by Susan.\nThere will be eight mid-week check-ins on Fridays from 2:30 pm – 3:00 pm ET. This is a chance to discuss your practice\, share reflections about the homework\, and ask questions. Led by Jenna.\nAttendance at the Opening Session\, all Classes and Check-ins is mandatory. If you foresee a conflict\, please email Lisa to discuss before completing an application. If necessary\, you may miss one class or check-in\, however the first and last classes may not be missed. Use The Time Zone Converter to see what time the class is held in your city. You can use Boston as the class location.\n\nEach class will begin with a guided meditation practice for the entire group.\n\n  \nWeek 0: Opening Session\nSeptember 21: 2:30 – 3:30 pm ET\nIntroductions\nReview requirement for this program\nReview program tools \nWeek 1: Introduction\nSeptember 25: 3:00 – 5:00 pm ET\nHow meditation can support you\, your clients\, and your work in the world \nExpectations and requirements for this program \nWhy is meditation important to someone working as a coach\, therapist\, or yoga teacher? \nThe foundation\, process\, and expected outcome of this course \nAn overview of the three-tiered learning objectives: \n\nTo help clients become more mindful\,\nTo develop a personal mindfulness practice\, and\nTo become more present within the coaching flow\n\nIntroduction to shamatha (breath-awareness) meditation \nGuided meditation practice by Susan \nDiscussion and homework \nWeek 2: Entering the Path\nOctober 2: 3:00 – 5:00 pm ET\nGo beyond the hype: Deepen your knowledge of the history\, purpose\, and meaning of mindfulness \nGuided meditation practice by Jenna \nIntroduction to the philosophy and principles of mindfulness \nReview of the three main cycles of Buddhist teachings\, the qualities emphasized by each cycle\, and where our practice fits within the arc of Buddhist meditation practices \nOverview of the most common obstacles to practice and their antidotes \nBreakout groups \nDiscussion and homework \nWeek 3: Keeping it Genuine\nOctober 9: 3:00 – 5:00 pm ET\nYour personal practice: The essential foundation for teaching from the heart \nGuided meditation practice by Susan \nEstablishing the foundation for your practice \n\nHow to create a strong personal practice\nThe secret to personal discipline\nThree steps to keep your practice sacred (instead of self-help)\n\nBreakout groups \nDiscussion and homework \nWeek 4: Opening Your Heart\nOctober 16: 3:00 – 5:00 pm ET\nExplore the value of strong emotions and how to work with them mindfully \nGuided meditation practice by Jenna \nHow meditation opens the heart\, how to support yourself and others who may feel increasingly vulnerable\, and how to view vulnerability as a source of power \nInsight into working with strong emotion during meditation \nIntroduction to the Four Immeasurables: Loving-kindness\, Compassion\, Sympathetic Joy\, and Equanimity \nBreakout groups \nDiscussion and homework \nWeek 5: Turning Your Practice Outward\nOctober 23: 3:00 – 5:00 pm ET\nMeditation is not just something you do on the cushion: Create a mindful environment that will support you to have greater impact\n \nGuided meditation practice by Susan \nHow your practice can benefit others\, especially your clients or patients \n\nFive steps to creating a mindful environment\nCreating a lifestyle of mindfulness: the importance of elegance\nCreating the container for teaching\n\nBreakout groups \nDiscussion and homework \nWeek 6: Sharing the Practice with Authenticity\nOctober 30: 3:00 – 5:00 pm ET\nHow to introduce the practice to others with confidence \nHow to offer this practice to others with confidence and authority \nBeginning to sense the state of mind of your student \n\nThree centers of intelligence\nThree instinctual drives\nThree Hornevian directions\n\nHow to protect the transmission quality and sacred nature of the practice \nPracticum intensive: Students break into dyads to provide meditation instruction to one another \nDiscussion and homework \nWeek 7: Teaching Skillfully\nNovember 6: 3:00 – 5:00 pm ET\nHow to give a talk on mindfulness to a group \nHow to give a talk on meditation to a small group \n\nThreefold logic\nThree qualities to bring to a talk\n\nPracticum intensive: Students again break into dyads to provide meditation instruction to one another \nDiscussion and homework \nWeek 8: Creating a Strong Bond while Maintaining Boundaries\nNovember 13: 3:00 – 5:00 pm ET\nHow to keep the practice sacred for your students and yourself \nEstablishing a relationship with your students: \nHow to let prospective students know you offer meditation instruction \nHow to create and maintain an appropriate relationship with students \nMoney: should you charge\, how much\, when\, and why? \nPracticum intensive: Students again break into dyads to provide meditation instruction to one another \nDiscussion and homework \nWeek 9: Testing Your Knowledge: The Warrior’s Circle\nNovember 20: 3:00 – 5:00 pm ET\nBringing it all together and how to take it forward \nThe “Warriors Circle” is a different way of testing knowledge. It is both more gentle than traditional testing methods and more intense. Each student must be prepared to verbally answer every one of the test questions\, but only one will actually be posed to him or her. \nGoing forward: How to bring your new training into your business to create more value for yourself and your clients or patients. \n  \n\n\nWHAT RECENT GRADUATES HAVE TO SAY:\n\nWhen my friends and coworkers started asking me to lead a meditation group\, I began researching a number of certification programs across the country. It happened that the Open Heart Project was hosting their next class in just two weeks and I knew I had to apply. I was familiar with Susan Piver and felt a deep trust in the wisdom of her teachings. I’m so glad I was accepted into the program because Susan and Jenna are extraordinary teachers who complement each other so well. The program strengthened my knowledge of the practice and offered me valuable tools in teaching others. I also loved my classmates and the energy they brought to each class. I highly recommend this program to anyone who wants to deepen their own practice and share it with others! –Nazmina M. \n  \n\nThe Open Heart Project – Meditation Instructor Training program has taught me how to instruct meditation and consider other important things and behaviors that impact my life. I am an activist\, yoga teacher\, workshop leader\, and the practice of meditation has calmed the noise in my mind\, and enhanced my daily life. There is more order in my life; more realistic compassion for others and myself; and a heightened awareness of being present. How did this occur\, you might ask? Well\, the study of meditation not only taught me how to sit and follow the breath\, but also how to examine the patterns or ways of being that have hindered my path. Susan and Jenna are marvelous teachers! They share their confidence and knowledge in a facile\, and relatable way. As the training progresses you come to understand that this course is a gift. –Maya B. \n\nI am so grateful to have had the opportunity to become a Meditation Instructor under the wisdom and guidance of Susan and Jenna. I am a gym owner and endurance coach for athletes so I understand what it takes to teach a group of individuals. Teaching is no small task\, especially when your students are literally from all over the world with very varied reasons for why they are participating in your class. Susan and Jenna were able to teach in a clear and concise way while creating a loving and personal space for all of us to learn and develop as instructors. Their instruction was organized and professional while being simultaneously warm and flexible based on our individual needs. I graduated from the course feeling fully prepared to share this beautiful meditation practice with my students. Since completing the course I have had the honor to teach meditation to many different people and right from the first instruction I was able to share the technique clearly and completely because of the wonderful instruction I had been given in the course. It is truly an honor and joy to be able to share Shamatha Meditation with others and I am grateful to be so well prepared. Thank you Susan and Jenna for your teaching and support. Thank you most for the continued gifts of your love\, positive energy and wisdom. –Mary Ann S.\n \n\n\nREQUIREMENTS\nSuccessful completion of this program is predicated on the following: \n\nFull attendance at the Opening Session\, Class Dates and Check-in Dates below.\nCompletion of homework and exercises.\nAccepting honest feedback from your teachers and fellow classmates.\nEvaluation by Susan or Jenna (between weeks 7 and 9\, you will meet online with either Susan or Jenna to give 1:1 meditation instruction).\nThe ability to answer the most frequently asked questions\, to be tested during week 9.\nA commitment to your own personal practice. This is the strictest requirement.\n\nPlease be advised that graduation is not guaranteed. Full attendance and completion of assignments are not the sole measures. We want to make sure you are really ready to go out and offer this practice from your heart\, in your own way\, with full respect for the ancient tradition. We will do everything in our power to help you! If we foresee any issues with your readiness to provide meditation instruction\, we will work with you to develop a plan for additional practice and study. \n  \n\n  \nINVESTMENT \nEARLY BIRD PRICE: $1\,295.00 (until September 1st)\n \nTHIS PROGRAM IS SOLD OUT.\n \nPlease email lisa@susanpiver.com to sign up for 2019 course announcements. \nLimited to 50 people. \nOnce accepted\, applicants must pay within 10 days to secure their spot in the program. \nBecause space is limited\, we do not offer refunds. Please contact us before payment if you have questions about this. \nQuestions? Please email Lisa. \n  \n\nI applied for the OHP Meditation Instructor Training thinking I was simply going to learn the proper way to guide others through meditation practice. While that did happen\, this class took me on a wonderful and revealing journey that prompted me to examine my own mind\, practice\, obstacles\, outlooks\, and more in a vigorous way. I learned meditation practice is not just something I do. It is something I carry into every aspect of my off-the-cushion life. I emerged from this class feeling fully prepared to teach others. — Lisa L. \n\nWhile I signed up for the course to primarily deepen my own practice\, I came out of it feeling very comfortable with the prospect of teaching meditation someday. This course was effective at helping me commit to and strengthen my own practice. I gained a solid foundation regarding basic meditation instruction and theory and I am grateful for the opportunity! — Sara S. \n\nThrough this course\, I reconnected with meditation as a meaningful spiritual practice that offered me the opportunity to deepen my spirituality and open to acceptance and compassion. Susan and Jenna thoroughly covered the key components of effective meditation instruction\, as well as how to harness our own meditation practice and experience to help our students as they begin a practice and encounter obstacles. I wholeheartedly recommend the course to those committed to deepening their own practice and to bringing the practice to their clients and community. — Kristyn J. \n\nI completed the Meditation Instructor training in 2016. Soon after it ended\, I realized that something was missing in my days and weeks\, which was that I missed the community of meditators and deep thinking and awareness that I had been part of with Susan Piver and Jenna Hollenstein. Participating in this community and learning meditation skills and teaching skills were significant experiences for me\, and I have gone on to participate in an immersive program for teaching mindfulness to teens. Besides that\, I have been inspired and “anchored” by the practice of logging my daily meditation\, which was introduced to me in this OHP course. To date\, whether it is for 45 minutes or one minute (probably an average of 15-20 minutes)\, I have meditated daily for 539 continuous days\, during which time I have learned an immense amount about my mind\, my heart\, and the beings around me — and that is just a tiny aspect of what Susan and Jenna’s course offered. Go OHP!!\n — Ingrid K. \n\nTaking the meditation instructor training course with Susan and Jenna\, for me\, is one of those gifts that keeps giving. Susan and Jenna have a way of radiating not only their knowledge\, but especially their love for the practice and they share it generously. They encouraged us to make our own practice committed and consistent too; they got us practicing teaching together in a supportive environment. I especially loved meeting and learning from the other participants from all over the world. In hindsight\, if I had to say just one way I benefited from the course\, it would be that I’m getting better at shifting “How am I doing?” to “How can I relax into this situation\, let go of expectations\, and listen?” That seems like some of the best meditation instructor training (and life training) that I can think of.\n — Laura C. \n\nTerms of Use/Privacy Policy URL:https://openheartproject.com/event/meditation-instructor-training-program-fall-2018/ CATEGORIES:eCourse END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20170413T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20170413T203000 DTSTAMP:20260520T004904 CREATED:20170314T025805Z LAST-MODIFIED:20170314T151631Z UID:10014327-1492110000-1492115400@openheartproject.com SUMMARY:The Four Noble Truths of Love DESCRIPTION:A meditation practice gives rise to compassion\, wisdom\, and confidence–all of which seem to disappear when we enter into\, seek to establish\, or need to exit from a relationship. Relationships present our deepest challenges along the spiritual path.\n  \nThis four-week course will explore it all via talks  from Susan\, small-group discussion\, readings\, and at-home contemplations. You will gain insights and learn on-the-spot practices to bring mindfulness off the cushion and into your love life. \nWe will explore: \n\nHow to bring the fruits of spiritual practice into our love life to deepen affection\, passion\, and kindness\n\n\nHow to fall in love without grasping\n\n\nHow to let go when it is called for\n\n\nWhat Buddhism can offer when it comes to working with the pain of heartbreak\n\n\nHow to remain open to love\n\nBuddhism is based on Four Noble Truths: Everything changes; grasping creates suffering; there is a way to work with it all; and a path for doing so. Join writer and Buddhist teacher Susan Piver for practice\, discussion\, and an exploration of how to apply these truths to that greatest of mysteries: love. \nCurriculum\nWeek One: Relax\nDiscussion of the first noble truth: Relationships are Uncomfortable\nThe value of discomfort when falling in love; being in love; losing love; longing for love\nHow to work with it to keep your heart open\nTechniques for what to do when it is too much\nHow meditation creates a foundation for it all\nGroup meditation practice and discussion \nWeek Two: See Where You Are\nDiscussion of the second noble truth: Thinking they Should be Comfortable Makes Them Uncomfortable\nWhat is the true power of relationships? (Spoiler alert: it’s not about safety)\nWhat can you actually commit to and what can you ask another to commit to?\nDeepening your capacity to stay\nThe types of problems you can work with and the types you should not work with\nGroup meditation practice and discussion \nWeek Three: Be Where You Are\nDiscussion of the third noble truth: Meeting the Discomfort Together is Love\nBecoming a spiritual love warrior\nPractices for opening and stabilizing your heart\nWhen you are open to this work but your partner is not\nGroup meditation practice and discussion \nWeek Four: The Path\nDiscussion of the fourth noble truth: The 3-Fold Path of Love\nThe three qualities to cultivate that make love your super power\nThe sure-fire way to bring more love into your life\nGoing forward with these teachings and practices\nGroup meditation practice and discussion\n \n \nAll classes are recorded and those recordings made available for 60 days from the last class date.\n \nThis program is free with an Open Heart Project Sangha membership. Membership costs $27 a month (or $270 for the year) and offers continuous support in the form of video lessons\, daily practice support\, and a wildly supportive 24/7 community in which you may participate or lurk as much as you like. \nQuestions? Please email Michele. URL:https://openheartproject.com/event/the-four-noble-truths-of-love/ CATEGORIES:eCourse END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20170124 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20170125 DTSTAMP:20260520T004904 CREATED:20161025T141848Z LAST-MODIFIED:20161212T171701Z UID:10014258-1485216000-1485302399@openheartproject.com SUMMARY:Become a Certified Meditation Instructor DESCRIPTION:Meditation Instructor Certification Program\nJanuary 24 – March 21\, 2017\n[vimeo width=”500″ height=”281″]https://vimeo.com/190788974[/vimeo] \nAPPLY\nABOUT\nThis program was developed by Susan Piver\, founder of the Open Heart Project\, and Jenna Hollenstein\, a meditation guide and nutrition therapist. It is specifically designed to support those who wish to offer meditation instruction within a professional context. It will help coaches\, yoga teachers\, therapists\, counselors\, managers\, and others who wish to bring mindfulness to their clients\, students\, patients\, colleagues\, and so on. \nThe Open Heart Project is proud to offer its Meditation Instructor Certification Program. This online program is specifically constructed to serve those who work one-to-one or in small groups with clients or patients. \n  \nOur program has been recognized by the International Coaching Federation. Federation members may claim 28 CEUS (14 core and 14 resource development) toward maintaining their coaching certification. \nMindfulness meditation is now a cultural phenomenon. It may appear that teaching meditation is a simple thing—what is so complicated about sitting down and breathing?! However\, 2600 years of mindfulness-awareness practice has shown us that though the technique is simple\, the results it produces are not. A responsible meditation teacher has some knowledge of how to guide others as their practice takes root. \nOver this nine-week program\, participants will gain the necessary skills to teach the meditation technique clearly\, answer the most frequently asked questions with confidence\, and gain insight into the teacher-student relationship. \nThis program is not about becoming a spiritual guide\, but about learning to impart this ancient technique responsibly\, kindly\, and skillfully. \n  \nCURRICULUM\n\n28 hours of class time over 9 weeks and a commitment to practice meditation daily\nClasses will be held on nine consecutive Tuesdays from 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm ET. Each class is recorded\nThere will be eight mid-week check-ins on Fridays from 2:30 pm – 3:00 pm ET. This is a chance to discuss your practice\, share reflections about the homework\, and ask questions\nAttendance at all classes and check-ins is MANDATORY. If you foresee a conflict\, please email us to discuss before completing an application\n\nNOTE\nSuccessful completion of this program is predicated on the following:\n\nFull attendance at all classes and check-ins\nCompletion of homework and exercises\nHonest feedback from your fellow classmates (you will be giving each other meditation instruction)\nAn okay from either Susan or Jenna following a 1:1 meeting to be held between weeks 8 and 9\nThe ability to answer the most frequently asked questions\, to be tested during week 9\n\nPlease be advised that graduation is not guaranteed. Full attendance and completion of assignments are not the sole measures. We want to make sure you are really ready to go out and offer this practice from your heart\, in your own way\, but with full respect for the ancient tradition. We will do everything in our power to help you! \nWeek 1: Introduction  \nWhy is meditation important to someone working as a coach\, therapist\, or wellness teacher? \nThe foundation\, process\, expected outcome of this course \nAn overview of the three-tiered learning objectives: \n\nTo help clients become more mindful;\nTo develop a personal mindfulness practice\, and\nTo become more present within the coaching flow\n\nBecoming a skillful meditation instructor is the result of a strong personal practice; discussion of how this course will help you to achieve this \nIntroduction to shamatha (breath-awareness) meditation  \nDiscussion of meditation as a spiritual practice (that has nothing to do with religion) rather than self-help \nGuided meditation practice by Susan \nDiscussion and homework \nWeek 2: Entering the Path \nGuided meditation practice by Susan \nIntroduction to the philosophy and principles of mindfulness \nReview of the three main cycles of Buddhist teachings\, the qualities emphasized by each cycle\, and where our practice fits within the arc of Buddhist meditation practices \nOverview of the most common obstacles to practice and their antidotes \nDiscussion and homework \nWeek 3: Keeping it Genuine \nGuided meditation practice by Susan \nHow to create a strong personal practice \nThe importance of simplicity \nThe secret to personal discipline \nThree steps to take in your personal practice to keep it sacred (rather than self-help) \nDiscussion and homework \nWeek 4: Opening Your Heart \nGuided meditation practice by Susan \nHow meditation opens the heart\, how to support yourself and others who may feel increasingly vulnerable\, and how to view vulnerability as a source of power \nInsight into working with strong emotion during meditation \nIntroduction to the three centers of intelligence\, the Hornevian Directional Theory\, and what this has to do with becoming a good teacher \nIntroduction to the Four Immeasurables: Lovingkindness\, Compassion\, Sympathetic Joy\, and Equanimity \nMaking the connection between meditation practice and heart-opening and how that can influence the coaching relationship \nReflections on what may be holding you back from fully expressing your gifts as a coach and how the Four Immeasurables can help \nDiscussion and homework \nWeek 5: Turning Your Practice Outward \nGuided meditation practice by Susan \nBringing mindfulness off the cushion and into real life \nCreating a lifestyle of mindfulness: the importance of elegance \nHow your practice can benefit others\, especially your clients or patients \nFive steps to creating a mindful environment \nDiscussion and homework \nWeek 6: Sharing the Practice with Authenticity \nGuided meditation practice by Susan \nHow to offer this practice to others with confidence and authority \nPracticum intensive: Students break into dyads to provide meditation instruction to one another \nDiscussion and homework \nWeek 7: Teaching Skillfully \nGuided meditation practice by Susan \nHow to give a talk on meditation to a small group \nPracticum intensive: Students again break into dyads to provide meditation instruction to one another \nDiscussion and homework \nWeek 8: Creating a Strong Bond while Maintaining Boundaries \nGuided meditation practice by Susan \nHow to establish an appropriate relationship with meditation students \nHow to protect the sacred nature of the practice \nHow to establish confidence in the mind of your student so he or she can trust you and listen to you \nHow to prepare to give meditation instruction \nLetting go of expectations of yourself as a teacher\, of your student\,and of the practice \nDiscussion and homework \nWeek 9: Testing Your Knowledge: The Warrior’s Circle \nThe “Warriors Circle” is a different way of testing knowledge. It is both more gentle than traditional testing methods and more intense. Each student must be prepared to verbally answer every one of the test questions\, but only one will actually be posed to him or her. \nGoing forward: How to bring your new certification into your business to create more value for yourself and your clients or patients. \nREQUIREMENTS\n\nCompleted application form is due by January 22nd.\nOnce accepted\, all successful applicants must pay in full by program start.\nAttendance at all classes and check-ins is MANDATORY. Please email us before you apply if you foresee any conflicts.\nA commitment to your own personal practice. The most important quality of a meditation teacher is his or her own strong practice. You will receive all the instruction and support you need to establish your personal practice. The commitment to practice regularly is the strictest requirement.\nYour understanding that acceptance and participation in the course does not guarantee passage. If we foresee any issues with your readiness to provide meditation instruction\, we will work with you to develop a plan for additional practice and study.\n\n\nCOST\n$1295 Early Bird until November 21. $1495 November 22-January 22. \nOnce accepted\, all successful applicants must pay in full by program start. \nNo refunds. \nLimited to 50 people. Our previous program filled before the Early Bird period ended. Please sign up now if you are interested. \nAPPLY\nQuestions? Please email Michele. \nSusan Piver is a Buddhist teacher and the New York Times bestselling author of nine books. A student of Buddhism since 1995\, she graduated from a Buddhist seminary in 2004 and was authorized to teach meditation in the Shambhala Buddhist lineage in 2005. \nShe teaches workshops and speaks all over the world on meditation\, spirituality\, communication styles\, relationships and creativity. \nIn 2011\, Piver launched The Open Heart Project\, an online meditation community with nearly 20\,000 members who practice together and explore ways to bring spiritual values such as kindness\, genuineness and fearlessness to everyday life. \n  \nJenna Hollenstein\, MS\, RD\, CDN\, is a writer\, nutrition therapist\, mindfulness teacher and Open Heart Project Meditation Guide. \nShe is a Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor and the author of Understanding Dietary Supplements\, a handy guide to the evaluation and use of vitamins\, minerals\, herbs\, and botanicals for both consumers and clinicians\, and more recently the memoir Drinking to Distraction. URL:https://openheartproject.com/event/become-certified-meditation-instructor-4/ CATEGORIES:eCourse END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20161206T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20161206T203000 DTSTAMP:20260520T004904 CREATED:20161118T035142Z LAST-MODIFIED:20161118T180426Z UID:10014280-1481050800-1481056200@openheartproject.com SUMMARY:Dharma of Simple DESCRIPTION:A special evening event exploring the intersection of personal organization and meditation.\nWe all want to feel confident heading into a new year. As you may have learned from the Open Heart Project\, genuine confidence is not necessarily about “believing” in yourself—it is a way of being in the world. To live with confidence\, according to Buddhist teachings\, you don’t have to change anything about your psychology\, rather\, you can create small shifts in the environment in which you live. \nThe simplest way to make those small shifts is by getting organized and improving your relationship with time. \nIn this 90-minute class\, Andrew will introduce us to The Organizational Triangle®\, three simple and powerful rules for getting and staying organized. He’ll discuss easy and sustainable ways to address the obstacles we all face in managing very busy lives. From dealing with papers and email to time management\, and from photographs to sentimental objects\, you can simplify your life without sacrificing the quality of your life. \nOur intention for this evening is to help you reorder the one place or “hot spot” that is making you most unhappy and give you the tools you need to keep it tidy and in order for good. You’ll also learn how you can easily apply the same techniques to every other area where you feel disorganized\, overwhelmed or stuff-challenged. \nWhen Andrew offers this program elsewhere\, he charges $97 or more. Because we are pals\, he’s willing to offer this to our community for only $29. A DEAL! \nRegister\nNo cancellations \nLIMITED TO 100 PARTICIPANTS  \nParticipants will also receive Andrew’s Top 10 Tips for Starting the New Year with Confidence checklist.\n(Last time we ran this program\, it sold out seriously fast. Please reserve your spot sooner rather than later.) \nThe session will be recorded and a link sent to participants. The recording will be available for 30 days. The day before the webinar\, you’ll receive an email with details for joining the live event. \n(OPEN HEART PROJECT SANGHA members: You will be able to access a recording of this webinar for free from December 7th-21st. It will be sent via email; no need to register! If you would like to join the Sangha to receive this free viewing and participate in many other programs free of charge\, please click here.) \nAbout Andrew:\n \nBest-selling Author of “Unstuff Your Life! Kick the Clutter Habit and Completely Organize Your Life for Good” \nAndrew’s humor\, honesty\, [compassionate] tough love and foolproof strategies have won fans and followers from Fortune 500 CEOs\, award-winning artists\, and older adults to overwhelmed moms and dads everywhere. He’s maintained a private practice since 1996\, as well as leading workshops and speaking worldwide on stuff\, sustainability and simplifying your life. \nAs a sought-after expert on organizing and productivity\, Andrew is often called “The Most Organized Man in America.” Here are just a few of the places he’s appeared: Tricycle\, Real Simple\, This Old House\, The New York Times\, The Wall Street Journal\, The Nate Berkus Show\, Oprah Magazine\, Better Homes & Gardens\, Martha Stewart Living Today\, Ladies’ Home Journal\, Family Circle\, GQ\, Women’s Day\, HGTV and NPR\, along with many others. \nHis corporate clients include American Express\, Goldman Sachs\, Metropolitan Museum of Art\, Nationwide Insurance and the U.S. Departments of Education and Homeland Security. \nA long-time meditation practitioner\, he often teaches on the intersection of organizing and spirituality at venues including Omega Institute\, San Francisco Zen Center\, Center for Spiritual Enlightenment and NY Open Center\, where he is on the faculty. \n \nQuestions? Please email Michele URL:https://openheartproject.com/event/dharma-of-simple/ CATEGORIES:eCourse END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20161025T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20161025T203000 DTSTAMP:20260520T004904 CREATED:20161004T000000Z LAST-MODIFIED:20161004T125342Z UID:10014235-1477422000-1477427400@openheartproject.com SUMMARY:Spiritually Blue:The Dharma of Depression DESCRIPTION:50% off for Open Heart Project Sangha members. Click here to join the Sangha and receive 50% off this and many other wonderful programs that are included in membership. \nAbout\nSpiritually Blue is an opportunity to contemplate depression from what may be a new angle: as a source of richness. We will explore the connection between meditation practice and strong emotions. We will learn how to make room for so-called “negativity” as a workable mind state. \nEach week’s class will offer meditation instruction\, experiential exercises\, rich discussion\, practical tools\, and clear\, doable “homework.” \nBy the end of this\, you will have\, perhaps\, a new way of looking at depression and a meditation practice that can support you as you do so. \nCURRICULUM\nWeek One: Feeling\nWhat does depression feel like?\nHow can meditation help?\nWhat is meditation? What is it not?\nBenefits\nThe 3 biggest misconceptions\nMindfulness and Awareness\nHow to meditate\nQ&A \nWeek Two: Being\nWhat is the difference between depression and sadness?\nWhat role can sadness play on the spiritual path?\nFeeling your feelings without a narrative overlay\nHow music can help\nQ&A \nWeek Three: Touching\nFinding stability in the instability\nThe role of loving kindness\nLoving kindness meditation (a variation on)\nA review of the obstacles to meditation practice and their antidotes\nQ&A \nWeek Four: Warriorship\nWhat is the genuine heart of sadness?\nHow can depression/sadness be a support to the spiritual warrior?\nWhere to go with it all\nQ&A \nFAQs\nI am chronically clinically depressed—can this program help me? \nI don’t know. If you are under medical treatment for a depressive disorder or any other psychological condition\, you must check with your healthcare provider before enrolling in this program. (Meditation is not appropriate for all people at all times.) \nI can’t make some (or all) of the classes because I am in a different time zone/have to work/will be too tired (and so on). Can I still benefit from the class? \nYes. All sessions will be recorded and a link sent out to all participants within 24 hours of the class. You will have a chance to send in questions you’d like Susan to cover in the next class. \nI may not be able to keep up with the class due to work\, travel\, or family reasons. If I miss a week will the material be accessible for a while? \nYes. The material will be posted for two months after the class finishes so you will be able to visit and revisit the material as often as you like. \nI am interested in meditation\, but I am NOT interested in religion. Will the class require me to learn any doctrine or accept particular beliefs? \nAbsolutely not. Doctrine and beliefs are an obstacle to meditation. You can benefit from the practice if you are Christian\, Hindu\, Pagan\, atheist\, and so on and on. There is no conflict. \nI want to take this class but the timing is not good for me. Will Susan be offering it again? \nShe may\, although at this time there is no plan to do so. \nI’ve never taken an online class. Do I need any special equipment or software? \nNo. The class will be held using the Zoom platform. You will receive a link to join each class via email. All you need is an internet connection. \nAbout Susan Piver\nSusan Piver is a Buddhist teacher and the New York Times bestselling author of nine books. A student of Buddhism since 1995\, she graduated from a Buddhist seminary in 2004 and was authorized to teach meditation in the Shambhala Buddhist lineage in 2005. \nShe teaches workshops and speaks all over the world on meditation\, spirituality\, communication styles\, relationships and creativity. \nIn 2011\, Piver launched The Open Heart Project\, an online meditation community with nearly 20\,000 members who practice together and explore ways to bring spiritual values such as kindness\, genuineness and fearlessness to everyday life. \nRegistration\n50% off for Open Heart Project Sangha members. Click here to join the Sangha and receive 50% off this and many other wonderful programs that are included in membership. \nProgram members will also have access to a private members forum for sharing ideas and feedback with each other.  Susan will also be posting weekly discussion topics and comments. \nAll sessions will be recorded and a link sent to members within 24 hrs. of the live class. The recordings will be made available for 60 days from the last class date. \nNo cancellations.\n \nQuestions? Please email Michele. \nSPACE IS LIMITED!! Please register now to reserve your spot. URL:https://openheartproject.com/event/spiritually-blue/ CATEGORIES:eCourse END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20160927T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20160927T170000 DTSTAMP:20260520T004905 CREATED:20160607T172405Z LAST-MODIFIED:20160818T153821Z UID:10014122-1474988400-1474995600@openheartproject.com SUMMARY:Become a Certified Meditation Instructor DESCRIPTION:Meditation Instructor Certification Program\nABOUT\nMindfulness meditation is now a cultural phenomenon! Research has shown that it can help regulate blood pressure and reduce symptoms in stress-related illnesses. It can help prevent relapse into depression when included as part of a treatment protocol. It lowers the stress hormone cortisol. Those who practice it regularly report greater self-confidence\, improved communication skills\, and an increased ability to navigate conflict and uncertainty. \nIf you are a yoga teacher\, life coach\, business coach\, nutritionist\, therapist\, health care professional\, or anyone who works with others directly\, acquiring the skill to be a meditation instructor can bring great value to the relationship. \nIt may appear that teaching meditation is a simple thing—what is so complicated about sitting down and breathing?! However\, 2600 years of mindfulness-awareness practice has shown us that though the technique is simple\, the results it produces are not. A responsible meditation teacher has some knowledge of how to guide others as their practice takes root. \nThe Open Heart Project is proud to announce its first-ever Meditation Instructor Certification Program. This online program is specifically constructed to serve those who work one-to-one or in small groups with clients or patients. Our program has been recognized by the International Coaching Federation. Federation members may claim 28 CEUS (14 core and 14 resource development) toward maintaining their coaching certification. \nThe program was created by Susan Piver and Jenna Hollenstein. Susan is the New York Times best selling author of 9 books\, a long-time meditation teacher\, and founder of the Open Heart Project\, an online mindfulness community with close to 20\,000 members. Jenna is a meditation guide in the Open Heart Project and a registered dietitian and nutrition therapist. She is founder of  Eat to Love and uses a non-diet approach to work one-to-one with clients struggling with chronic dieting\, disordered eating\, and eating disorders. \nParticipants will gain the necessary skills to teach the meditation technique clearly\, answer the most frequently asked questions with confidence\, and gain insight into the teacher-student relationship. This program is not about becoming a spiritual guide\, but about learning to impart this ancient technique responsibly\, kindly\, and skillfully. \nCURRICULUM\n\n28 hours of class time over 9 weeks and a commitment to practice meditation daily\nClasses will be held on nine consecutive Tuesdays from 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm ET. Each class is recorded so if you have to miss one\, you may catch up by watching the recording. However\, we ask that you miss not more than one class.\nThere will be nine mid-week check-ins on Fridays from 2:30 pm – 3:00 pm ET. This is a chance to discuss your practice\, share reflections about the homework\, and ask questions.\n\nWeek 1: Introduction  \nWhy is meditation important to someone working as a coach\, therapist\, or wellness teacher? \nThe foundation\, process\, expected outcome of this course \nAn overview of the three-tiered learning objectives: \n\nTo help clients become more mindful;\nTo develop a personal mindfulness practice\, and\nTo become more present within the coaching flow\n\nIntroduction to meditation as a spiritual practice (that has nothing to do with religion) \nGuided meditation practice by Susan \nDiscussion and homework \nWeek 2: Entering the Path \nGuided meditation practice by Susan \nIntroduction to the philosophy and principles of mindfulness \nReview of the most common obstacles to practice and their antidotes \nDiscussion and homework \nWeek 3: Keeping it Genuine \nGuided meditation practice by Susan \nHow to create a a strong personal practice \nThe importance of simplicity \nThe secret to personal discipline \nThree steps to keep your practice sacred (rather than self-help) \nDiscussion and homework \nWeek 4: Opening Your Heart \nGuided meditation practice by Susan \nHow meditation opens the heart\, how to support yourself and others who may feel increasingly vulnerable\, and how to view vulnerability as a source of power \nIntroduction to the Four Immeasurables: Lovingkindness\, Compassion\, Sympathetic Joy\, and Equanimity \nMaking the connection between meditation practice and heart-opening and how that can influence the coaching relationship \nReflections on what may be holding you back from fully expressing your gifts as a coach and how the Four Immeasurables can help \nDiscussion and homework \nWeek 5: Turning Your Practice Outward \nGuided meditation practice by Susan \nBringing mindfulness off the cushion and into real life \nCreating a lifestyle of mindfulness \nHow your practice can benefit others\, especially your clients or patients \n5 steps to creating a mindful environment \nDiscussion and homework \nWeek 6: Sharing the Practice with Authenticity \nGuided meditation practice by Susan \nHow to offer this practice to others with confidence and authority \nPracticum intensive: Students break into dyads to provide meditation instruction to one another \nDiscussion and homework \nWeek 7: Teaching Skillfully \nGuided meditation practice by Susan \nPracticum intensive: Students again break into dyads to provide meditation instruction to one another \nDiscussion and homework \nWeek 8: Creating a Strong Bond while Maintaining Boundaries \nGuided meditation practice by Susan \nHow to establish an appropriate relationship with meditation students \nHow to protect the sacred nature of the practice \nHow to establish confidence in the mind of your student so he or she can trust you and listen to you \nHow to prepare to give meditation instruction \nLetting go of expectations of yourself as a teacher\, of your student\, of the instruction \nDiscussion and homework \nWeek 9: Testing Your Knowledge: The Warrior’s Circle \nThe “Warriors Circle” is a different way of testing knowledge. It is both more gentle than traditional testing methods and more intense. Each student must be prepared to verbally answer every one of the test questions\, but only one will actually be posed to him or her. \nGoing forward: How to bring your new certification into your business to create more value for yourself and your clients or patients. \nREQUIREMENTS\n\nCompleted application form.\nThe ability and commitment to attend classes and check-ins. Attendance is required for all classes and check-ins. If you need to\, you may miss one class or one check-in\, to be made-up by watching the recording before the next session. Attendance in classes #1\, #6\, #7\, and #9 is mandatory.\nA commitment to your own personal practice. The most important quality of a meditation teacher is his or her own strong practice. You will receive all the instruction and support you need to establish your personal practice—and the commitment to practice regularly is required.\n\nCOST\n$1295 Early Bird (June 7 – Aug 7) and $1495 thereafter. \nPayment in full is required before attending the program. No refunds. \nREGISTRATION IS NOW CLOSED FOR THIS PROGRAM AS WE HAVE REACHED OUR PARTICIPANT CAPACITY.  PLEASE USE THE FORM BELOW TO BE NOTIFIED ABOUT REGISTRATION FOR OUR JANUARY COURSE. \n  \nQuestions? Please email Michele. \n  \nSusan Piver is a Buddhist teacher and the New York Times bestselling author of nine books. A student of Buddhism since 1995\, she graduated from a Buddhist seminary in 2004 and was authorized to teach meditation in the Shambhala Buddhist lineage in 2005. \nShe teaches workshops and speaks all over the world on meditation\, spirituality\, communication styles\, relationships and creativity. \nIn 2011\, Piver launched The Open Heart Project\, an online meditation community with nearly 20\,000 members who practice together and explore ways to bring spiritual values such as kindness\, genuineness and fearlessness to everyday life. \n  \nJenna Hollenstein\, MS\, RD\, CDN\, is a writer\, nutrition therapist\, mindfulness teacher and Open Heart Project Meditation Guide. \nShe is a Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor and the author of Understanding Dietary Supplements\, a handy guide to the evaluation and use of vitamins\, minerals\, herbs\, and botanicals for both consumers and clinicians\, and more recently the memoir Drinking to Distraction. \nShe will be co-teaching the NEW “How to Become a Meditation Instructor” certified E-Course program with Susan Piver. \nINTERESTED IN RECEIVING UPDATES ABOUT THE PROGRAM BEING HELD JANUARY 24 – MARCH 21\, 2017? Please submit your email via the form below and we’ll be sure to let you know when registration is available.\nLoading…\nHaving trouble submitting via the form? Please email Michele and she’ll add you to the list. URL:https://openheartproject.com/event/become-certified-meditation-instructor-2/ CATEGORIES:eCourse END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20160818T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20160818T203000 DTSTAMP:20260520T004905 CREATED:20160715T021147Z LAST-MODIFIED:20160808T170217Z UID:10014167-1471546800-1471552200@openheartproject.com SUMMARY:The One Heart: An Exploration of the Journey Toward True Intimacy in Relationships DESCRIPTION:ABOUT\n\nThe point of meditation practice (if there is one) is not necessarily to become great at meditation—it is to become great at your life. The practice creates a mind that is flexible\, tender\, and powerful. We become more adept at expressing ourselves honestly\, dealing with conflict\, and treating others with respect. \nHowever\, the area of life that seems most difficult to bring these qualities to bear is the area that\, for many\, is most important: relationships. To help us all\, I invited wonderful teacher and awesome human being Nick Kranz to lead us in a four-week exploration of how to bring the dharma into our love lives. \nWhether you are single\, attached\, falling in love\, or going through a break-up\, this program can help you to give and receive love more honestly\, communicate more clearly with people you love\, and become more discerning\, no matter where you are—or wish to be—in the relationship cycle. \nI hope you’ll consider this special program. \nLove\, Susan \nCURRICULUM\nClass 1: Gentleness\nExploring the foundation of a good friendship or relationship\n• Exploring our own self image with gentleness\n• Exploring our expectations with gentleness \nClass 2: Commitment\nExploring what allows us to go deeper together – what prevents it.\n• What are our healthy boundaries\n• What are our vision(s) for a good life \nClass 3: Loneliness * Please note this class will be an 8p.m. EDT start\nExploring maturity and working with the tenderness of the human heart\, finding the courage to not reject loneliness but to see its positive aspect\n• Discovering friendship with loneliness\n• Appreciation of the whole person \nClass 4: One Heart\nExploring how deepening intimacy radiates inspiration\, and highlights our common good human heart in our community and life.\n• Hosting goodness\n• Healing without agenda \nThis program is not free for Open Heart Project Sangha members. \nAll classes are recorded and a link sent to participants within 24 hours of the live class. \nRecordings are available for use for 90 days from the last class. \n  \nNick is an extraordinary teacher with so much depth of insight and joyfulness of spirit.  He has already enriched my practice considerably.  —Amy \nNick’s warmth\, caring and wisdom have really helped me clarify and deepen my understanding so that I am more able to take my practice off the cushion and into the world.—Janet \nABOUT NICK KRANZ\n \nShastri Nick Kranz has been a student of Sakyong Mipham Rinpoche since 1997. He has developed an approach to cultural transformation with the practice of Social Meditation\, and worked with Youth Leadership development in the Shambhala community for the last decade. You can see his teaching schedule and video blog at www.nickkranz.com URL:https://openheartproject.com/event/the-one-heart-an-exploration-of-the-journey-toward-true-intimacy-in-relationships/ CATEGORIES:eCourse END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20160710T110000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20160710T170000 DTSTAMP:20260520T004905 CREATED:20160315T190406Z LAST-MODIFIED:20160621T203524Z UID:10013580-1468148400-1468170000@openheartproject.com SUMMARY:Open Heart Project Annual Online Retreat DESCRIPTION:Please join me and the Open Heart Project community for a day-long online retreat of meditation and exploration of your unique spiritual path.\n  \nIt will take place on July 10 from 11a.m. EDT to 5p.m. EDT and will include meditation\, contemplation\, dialogue\, and instruction in a 3-step practice that you can do whenever you like to reestablish your seat (since we all fall off the cushion now and then). \nThe retreat will be recorded and a link made available\, for 60 days\, to all who register. This way\, you can repeat the program whenever you like or\, if you can’t attend on the 10th\, simply begin the program on any day that works for you. \nFull enjoyment of the program is predicated on turning off all electronics and letting go of responsibilities for this time period! No phones\, no TV\, no internet\, no icky chores. \nTHE SCHEDULE \n11:00a – 11:30a Talk from Susan\nWhy do we practice?\nHow can we sustain our practice?\nWhat can we really expect from our practice?\nDiscussion \n11:30a – 12:30p Meditation practice and q&a\nA chance to sit for a longer period and ask questions about your practice \n12:30p – 2:00p Contemplative break\nYou can have a meal or a snack (depending on your time zone) or simply rest. The idea for this time period is to only do what you feel like doing that is NOT work\, email\, or an unpleasant chore. Read\, have a cup of coffee\, take a walk or a nap\, do some enjoyable household task you’ve been wanting to get to; just relax. \n2:00p – 2:30p Meditation practice \n2:30p – 3:30p The 10×10 Method Daily Practice\nA simple daily practice that involves 10 minutes of meditation\, 10 minutes of contemplation\, and 10 minutes of journaling to help keep you on your path \n3:30p – 4:30p Contemplative break\nRelax some more! Hang out with yourself! \n4:30p – 5:00p Closing meditation practice and discussion \nCost: $50 for the day (includes a free PDF e-book\, “How to do a Meditation Retreat at Home” by Susan explains how to extend this experience into an entire weekend) \n50% for Open Heart Project Sangha Click here to join the Sangha and receive 50% off this and many other wonderful programs that are included in membership. \nSPACE IS LIMITED!! Please register now to reserve your spot. \nNo cancellations. \nQuestions?\, please email Michele  URL:https://openheartproject.com/event/open-heart-project-annual-online-retreat/ CATEGORIES:eCourse END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20160503T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20160503T203000 DTSTAMP:20260520T004905 CREATED:20160414T002148Z LAST-MODIFIED:20160503T220221Z UID:10013646-1462302000-1462307400@openheartproject.com SUMMARY:Introduction to the Buddhist Path DESCRIPTION:In recent years\, many people have self-identified as “probably Buddhist\,” meaning\, I imagine\, that they appreciate (or\, at least\, are relieved by) the emphasis on compassion\, non-violence\, and non-fundamentalism. \nBut what does it really mean to become a Buddhist? What do Buddhists believe? What are the key teachings and who are some key teachers? Where does one go to learn more? \nPlease join Susan for this three-week\, super-broad overview of the Buddhist path. Each week\, we will examine key points of the three “yanas” or vehicles of the dharma. For each yana\, we will discuss two core teachings\, one or more core practices\, and be introduced to one or more seminal wisdom masters. We will also practice meditation together\, flavored by that week’s themes. Susan will also suggest current teachers who carry on this tradition and where to go to learn more. \nSessions will be recorded and links sent out within 24 hours. Recordings and course materials will be available for use for 90 days after the last class date. We will meet on Zoom\, an online videoconferencing platform. \nCurriculum\nClass One (May 3)\nThe Foundation: The Hinayana Path \nCore teachings: Four Noble Truths and the Four Reminders\nCore principles: Simplicity\, Renunciation\, and Discipline\nCore teacher: Buddha\nPractice: Shamatha meditation\nCurrent teachers and resources\nDiscussion\nHomework and Readings \nClass Two  (May 10)\nExpanding Out: The Mahayana Path \nCore teaching: Prajnaparamita (Heart Sutra)\nCore principles: Absolute and Relative Bodhicitta (compassion)\nCore teacher: Nagarjuna\nPractice: Lovingkindness meditation\nCurrent teachers and resources\nDiscussion\nHomework and Readings \nClass Three  (May 17)\nOrdinary Magic: The Vajrayana Path \nCore teaching: Kalacakra Tantra\nCore principles: Samaya and Devotion\nCore teachers: Padmasambhava and Yeshe Tsogyal; Chogyam Trungpa\nPractice: Creativity\nCurrent teachers and resources\nDiscussion\nHomework and Readings \n  \nQuestions? Please email Michele \nNo cancellations. URL:https://openheartproject.com/event/introduction-to-the-buddhist/ CATEGORIES:eCourse END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20160416T140000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20160416T170000 DTSTAMP:20260520T004905 CREATED:20160318T135536Z LAST-MODIFIED:20160319T163547Z UID:10013274-1460815200-1460826000@openheartproject.com SUMMARY:The Enneagram DESCRIPTION:  \nThe enneagram\, a model of human personality\, is a great passion of mine. I have used it consistently in every area of my life for close to 20 years.\n  \n  \n\nIt helps me figure out how to communicate with others so that they can actually hear me.\nIt helps me to create closer relationships with those I care about.\nIt shows me how to remain calm and clear during conflicts and arguments.\nIt has helped me understand and soften toward myself.\n\nWhat prevents us from doing these things naturally is that we can’t see ourselves clearly. We each have our blind spot. The enneagram hands you a diagram of your own and others’. If you are willing to be brave\, it gives you the opportunity to actually see the beliefs and patterns that you hold out of fear and self-protection. If you are willing to be even braver\, it points the way to releasing them. If you are willing to braver still\, it can guide you to releasing others from your expectations about who you think they should be to instead embrace who they are. \nIn other words\, it is a compassion tool of the highest order. Deep\, broad\, complex\, and subtle\, the enneagram can teach you many things\, from how to talk to a colleague about a new project to how to release yourself from the expectations of others and live authentically. It stops you from interpreting the actions of others through your own filters and thus enables you to know them rather than simply reacquainting yourself with yourself. It can help you avoid arguments in favor of connection. It enables you to see through your own and others’ defenses to find the point of genuine connection. \nPlease join me for an online workshop to explore this rich\, powerful\, and mind-altering system. We will meet on Saturday\, April 16 for a three-hour workshop that gives an overview of the system. You will receive guidelines for how to type yourself and begin to sense the types of others. There will be specific follow-up questions and exercises. We will meet again on Saturday\, April 30 for a two-hour session from 11a.m.- 1p.m. EDT to hear what you have learned and give feedback for continuing to explore this game-changing system. \nSessions will be recorded and links sent out within 24 hours. Recordings and course materials will be available for use for 90 days after the last class date. We will meet on Zoom\, an online videoconferencing platform. \nWe will cover:\n\nIntroduction to the enneagram\nHow to use the system skillfully\nPossible abuses of the system and how to avoid\nThe Hornevian directional theory\nThe three triads/centers of intelligence (intuition\, emotion\, reason)\nThe three instinctual drives (self-preservation\, social\, intimate)\nA detailed description of each of the nine types and their three subtypes\nSpecific suggestions for how to type your yourself\nThe power (and danger) of typing others\nRecommended reading\n\nQuestions? Please email Michele \nI’m really appreciating how your enneagram class helped me digest some of my blindspots that have been obstacles in my practice.  Apparently I am most like a self-preservation 4…  Now I’m seeing the humor in it!  The more I was able to be present\, the more intimate I became with the textures of my emotions. Gail C. \n  URL:https://openheartproject.com/event/the-enneagram-course/ CATEGORIES:eCourse END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20160410T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20160410T203000 DTSTAMP:20260520T004905 CREATED:20160207T223254Z LAST-MODIFIED:20160407T022936Z UID:10013498-1460313000-1460320200@openheartproject.com SUMMARY:Online Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) course DESCRIPTION:Being mindful is the practice of being present—so simple\, and so very difficult. While we want to be awake and aware in the moments of our life\, too often we aren’t and instead shift into autopilot\, shut down emotionally (or become overwhelmed)\, or settle for simply getting through the day.\nThe practice of mindfulness calls on us to stop settling\, and to wake up to exactly how things are right here\, right now. This present moment awareness sometimes brings about relief and ease\, and sometimes it doesn’t\, but it always points us to a genuine experience of our own precious life. \nThe MBSR course is an evidence-based\, intensive exploration of the practice of mindfulness\, and what it means to practice mindfulness in your own life. Taught by Rebecca Eldridge\, a mindfulness teacher certified through University of Massachusetts Medical School’s Center for Mindfulness\, the course provides all the instruction and materials you need to practice mindfulness weekly within a group\, and daily on your own. You must supply the strong commitment to stick with the course and to practice every single day—when it’s pleasant\, unpleasant\, and neutral. \nDetails:\nWe will practice mindfulness in many forms (sitting\, moving\, walking\, scanning\, and so on) in class\, sometimes in silence\, and there will be opportunity for small and whole group sharing\, checking in\, asking questions\, and so on. You will receive audio to guide much of your daily\, at home practice. Between classes you will also have the opportunity to enter our virtual practice space 24/7\, and beyond the 8-week course\, you will be provided a way to continue to connect with other course participants\, if you choose. \nWe will convene using the Zoom video conference platform. It is imperative that you attend the classes\, but classes will be recorded for you to review if you must miss a class (if you know that you will have to miss more than one class\, you are invited to participate at another time; participating live in the half-day retreat is a must). \nPeople participate in the MBSR course for many reasons—to relieve stress of all kinds\, to soothe emotional and physical pain\, to live and love more fully\, to establish a regular practice of mindfulness\, and more. \nThe following is required:\n\nParticipate in the orientation\, all eight classes\, and the half-day retreat\nPractice daily for approximately one hour\nHold yourself and the other participants with respect and kind-heartedness\nStay curious about this live exploration\nBe willing to be seen as human (imperfect and completely okay)\nStick with it for 8 weeks\n\nCLASS MEETING TIMES:\nOrientation: April 10 6:30p.m. – 8:30p.m. EDT \nEight classes on Wednesday evenings\, April 13 – June 1\, 6:00p.m. – 8:30p.m. EDT \nPlus a half-day retreat\, May 22\, 11:00a.m. – 5:00p.m. EDT \nRegistration for this course is now closed.\nThis is a rare opportunity to participate in the full MBSR program online. \nLimited to 25 participants \nThis program is not free for Open Heart Project Sangha members. \nREFUND POLICY:\nYou may receive a full refund if you notify Michele by email at least 72 hours prior to the first class. (This will give us time to notify anyone on the waitlist.) No refunds will be granted thereafter. \nQuestions? Please email Michele. \nMore about Rebecca\nRebecca Eldridge is one of a limited number of mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) teachers worldwide to receive full teacher certification through the Center for Mindfulness at University of Massachusetts Medical School. She has taught mindfulness to cancer survivors\, people in chronic pain\, businesses\, medical students\, lay ministers\, and monastics. Her own meditation practice is guided by her teacher\, Pema Chödrön\, and she recently had a guided meditation produced by Shambhala Publications as part of an online course taught by Pema Chödrön: Making Friends with Yourself. Before beginning her work in mindfulness\, she taught literature and creative writing and worked as an information developer in the tech field. URL:https://openheartproject.com/event/online-mindfulness-based-stress-reduction-mbsr-course-2/ CATEGORIES:eCourse END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20160406T133000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20160406T140000 DTSTAMP:20260520T004905 CREATED:20160223T060042Z LAST-MODIFIED:20160317T011452Z UID:10013524-1459949400-1459951200@openheartproject.com SUMMARY:Mommy Sangha DESCRIPTION:The Open Heart Project Mommy Sangha: A supportive gathering of moms\, stepmoms\, and grandmothers to practice meditation together and share our wisdom\nAre you a mom (or stepmother or grandmother) who longs to practice meditation but can’t find time amidst the demands–and joys and difficulties–of caring for young children? \nParenting\, no matter how desired (and enjoyed)\, may come with fatigue\, self-doubt\, and the natural question: who the hell am I now? Meditation can help by offering space to breathe. Sangha (Sanskrit for community) helps by assuring you that you are most definitely not alone. Together\, meditation and Sangha can help you to remain present during the long days and short years of caring for your little ones. \nWhether you have a meditation practice (or used to have one) or are a brand new beginner\, you are warmly invited to join the Mommy Sangha. During this weekly 30-minute gathering\, you will be guided in a short meditation practice followed by a chance to connect with other mothers. We will also meet quarterly for a longer practice session and a special talk on how to apply Buddhist mindfulness principles to motherhood. \nThe Mommy Sangha will exist as a continuous presence for you to participate in as you are interested and able. And\, while we will be emphasizing the experiences of caring for younger children\, all mothers are welcome.\nWe promise to: \n\nProvide meditation instruction\nAnswer questions about meditation\nModerate the dialog to keep it meaningful and on point\nFoster kindness\nKeep it short!\n\nWhere: In the comfort of your own home via the Zoom meeting platform. Each session will be recorded so you can practice with the Mommy Sangha even if you can’t attend the live gathering. \n\n\n  \n\n \n \n \n  \nAbout Jenna Hollenstein\nNew mom\, mindfulness teacher\, and Founder and Nutrition Therapist at Eat to Love\, Jenna aims to bring the gentle sanity of Buddhist principles to every aspect of her personal and professional life. She is excited to support Mommy Sangha members to create and sustain a meditation practice that creates awareness\, lovingkindness\, and self-compassion. Her greatest teachers include Susan\, her partner Andrea\, and her son Mimmo. \nAbout the Open Heart Project\nCreated by meditation teacher and writer Susan Piver\, the OHP is an online meditation center. It shares all the qualities of a traditional dharma center: A shared practice. Workshops. Advanced courses. Retreats. Guest teachers. Community gatherings—all online and available to you 24/7. Currently\, there are close to 15000 members all over the world who are practicing meditation to recover a sense of balance\, cultivate fearlessness\, sharpen our minds\, and soften our hearts. While each may practice alone\, we also practice together to create a network of sanity and kindness. More information about the Open Heart Project can be found here. \nOnce you register\, your account will be charged automatically every 30 days\, unless or until you cancel. \nQuestions? Please email Michele \n  URL:https://openheartproject.com/event/mommy-sangha-2016-03-30-2016-04-06/ CATEGORIES:eCourse END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20160330T133000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20160330T140000 DTSTAMP:20260520T004905 CREATED:20160223T060038Z LAST-MODIFIED:20160317T011330Z UID:10013523-1459344600-1459346400@openheartproject.com SUMMARY:Mommy Sangha DESCRIPTION:The Open Heart Project Mommy Sangha: A supportive gathering of moms\, stepmoms\, and grandmothers to practice meditation together and share our wisdom\nAre you a mom (or stepmother or grandmother) who longs to practice meditation but can’t find time amidst the demands–and joys and difficulties–of caring for young children? \nParenting\, no matter how desired (and enjoyed)\, may come with fatigue\, self-doubt\, and the natural question: who the hell am I now? Meditation can help by offering space to breathe. Sangha (Sanskrit for community) helps by assuring you that you are most definitely not alone. Together\, meditation and Sangha can help you to remain present during the long days and short years of caring for your little ones. \nWhether you have a meditation practice (or used to have one) or are a brand new beginner\, you are warmly invited to join the Mommy Sangha. During this weekly 30-minute gathering\, you will be guided in a short meditation practice followed by a chance to connect with other mothers. We will also meet quarterly for a longer practice session and a special talk on how to apply Buddhist mindfulness principles to motherhood. \nThe Mommy Sangha will exist as a continuous presence for you to participate in as you are interested and able. And\, while we will be emphasizing the experiences of caring for younger children\, all mothers are welcome.\nWe promise to: \n\nProvide meditation instruction\nAnswer questions about meditation\nModerate the dialog to keep it meaningful and on point\nFoster kindness\nKeep it short!\n\nWhere: In the comfort of your own home via the Zoom meeting platform. Each session will be recorded so you can practice with the Mommy Sangha even if you can’t attend the live gathering. \n\n\n  \n\n \n \n \n  \nAbout Jenna Hollenstein\nNew mom\, mindfulness teacher\, and Founder and Nutrition Therapist at Eat to Love\, Jenna aims to bring the gentle sanity of Buddhist principles to every aspect of her personal and professional life. She is excited to support Mommy Sangha members to create and sustain a meditation practice that creates awareness\, lovingkindness\, and self-compassion. Her greatest teachers include Susan\, her partner Andrea\, and her son Mimmo. \nAbout the Open Heart Project\nCreated by meditation teacher and writer Susan Piver\, the OHP is an online meditation center. It shares all the qualities of a traditional dharma center: A shared practice. Workshops. Advanced courses. Retreats. Guest teachers. Community gatherings—all online and available to you 24/7. Currently\, there are close to 15000 members all over the world who are practicing meditation to recover a sense of balance\, cultivate fearlessness\, sharpen our minds\, and soften our hearts. While each may practice alone\, we also practice together to create a network of sanity and kindness. More information about the Open Heart Project can be found here. \nOnce you register\, your account will be charged automatically every 30 days\, unless or until you cancel. \nQuestions? Please email Michele \n  URL:https://openheartproject.com/event/mommy-sangha-2016-03-30/ CATEGORIES:eCourse END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20160323T133000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20160323T140000 DTSTAMP:20260520T004905 CREATED:20160223T060034Z LAST-MODIFIED:20160317T011157Z UID:10013522-1458739800-1458741600@openheartproject.com SUMMARY:Mommy Sangha DESCRIPTION:The Open Heart Project Mommy Sangha: A supportive gathering of moms\, stepmoms\, and grandmothers to practice meditation together and share our wisdom\nAre you a mom (or stepmother or grandmother) who longs to practice meditation but can’t find time amidst the demands–and joys and difficulties–of caring for young children? \nParenting\, no matter how desired (and enjoyed)\, may come with fatigue\, self-doubt\, and the natural question: who the hell am I now? Meditation can help by offering space to breathe. Sangha (Sanskrit for community) helps by assuring you that you are most definitely not alone. Together\, meditation and Sangha can help you to remain present during the long days and short years of caring for your little ones. \nWhether you have a meditation practice (or used to have one) or are a brand new beginner\, you are warmly invited to join the Mommy Sangha. During this weekly 30-minute gathering\, you will be guided in a short meditation practice followed by a chance to connect with other mothers. We will also meet quarterly for a longer practice session and a special talk on how to apply Buddhist mindfulness principles to motherhood. \nThe Mommy Sangha will exist as a continuous presence for you to participate in as you are interested and able. And\, while we will be emphasizing the experiences of caring for younger children\, all mothers are welcome.\nWe promise to: \n\nProvide meditation instruction\nAnswer questions about meditation\nModerate the dialog to keep it meaningful and on point\nFoster kindness\nKeep it short!\n\nWhere: In the comfort of your own home via the Zoom meeting platform. Each session will be recorded so you can practice with the Mommy Sangha even if you can’t attend the live gathering. \n\n\n  \n\n \n  \nAbout Jenna Hollenstein\nNew mom\, mindfulness teacher\, and Founder and Nutrition Therapist at Eat to Love\, Jenna aims to bring the gentle sanity of Buddhist principles to every aspect of her personal and professional life. She is excited to support Mommy Sangha members to create and sustain a meditation practice that creates awareness\, lovingkindness\, and self-compassion. Her greatest teachers include Susan\, her partner Andrea\, and her son Mimmo. \nAbout the Open Heart Project\nCreated by meditation teacher and writer Susan Piver\, the OHP is an online meditation center. It shares all the qualities of a traditional dharma center: A shared practice. Workshops. Advanced courses. Retreats. Guest teachers. Community gatherings—all online and available to you 24/7. Currently\, there are close to 15000 members all over the world who are practicing meditation to recover a sense of balance\, cultivate fearlessness\, sharpen our minds\, and soften our hearts. While each may practice alone\, we also practice together to create a network of sanity and kindness. More information about the Open Heart Project can be found here. \nOnce you register\, your account will be charged automatically every 30 days\, unless or until you cancel. \nQuestions? Please email Michele \n  URL:https://openheartproject.com/event/mommy-sangha-2016-03-23/ CATEGORIES:eCourse END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20160316T133000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20160316T140000 DTSTAMP:20260520T004905 CREATED:20160223T060025Z LAST-MODIFIED:20160316T122539Z UID:10013520-1458135000-1458136800@openheartproject.com SUMMARY:Mommy Sangha DESCRIPTION:The Open Heart Project Mommy Sangha: A supportive gathering of moms\, stepmoms\, and grandmothers to practice meditation together and share our wisdom\nTHIS ONGOING WEEKLY GATHERING BEGINS ON MARCH 16 \nAre you a mom (or stepmother or grandmother) who longs to practice meditation but can’t find time amidst the demands–and joys and difficulties–of caring for young children? \nParenting\, no matter how desired (and enjoyed)\, may come with fatigue\, self-doubt\, and the natural question: who the hell am I now? Meditation can help by offering space to breathe. Sangha (Sanskrit for community) helps by assuring you that you are most definitely not alone. Together\, meditation and Sangha can help you to remain present during the long days and short years of caring for your little ones. \nWhether you have a meditation practice (or used to have one) or are a brand new beginner\, you are warmly invited to join the Mommy Sangha. During this weekly 30-minute gathering\, you will be guided in a short meditation practice followed by a chance to connect with other mothers. We will also meet quarterly for a longer practice session and a special talk on how to apply Buddhist mindfulness principles to motherhood. \nThe Mommy Sangha will exist as a continuous presence for you to participate in as you are interested and able. And\, while we will be emphasizing the experiences of caring for younger children\, all mothers are welcome.\nWe promise to: \n\nProvide meditation instruction\nAnswer questions about meditation\nModerate the dialog to keep it meaningful and on point\nFoster kindness\nKeep it short!\n\nWhere: In the comfort of your own home via the Zoom meeting platform. Each session will be recorded so you can practice with the Mommy Sangha even if you can’t attend the live gathering. \n\n  \nAbout Jenna Hollenstein\nNew mom\, mindfulness teacher\, and Founder and Nutrition Therapist at Eat to Love\, Jenna aims to bring the gentle sanity of Buddhist principles to every aspect of her personal and professional life. She is excited to support Mommy Sangha members to create and sustain a meditation practice that creates awareness\, lovingkindness\, and self-compassion. Her greatest teachers include Susan\, her partner Andrea\, and her son Mimmo. \nAbout the Open Heart Project\nCreated by meditation teacher and writer Susan Piver\, the OHP is an online meditation center. It shares all the qualities of a traditional dharma center: A shared practice. Workshops. Advanced courses. Retreats. Guest teachers. Community gatherings—all online and available to you 24/7. Currently\, there are close to 15000 members all over the world who are practicing meditation to recover a sense of balance\, cultivate fearlessness\, sharpen our minds\, and soften our hearts. While each may practice alone\, we also practice together to create a network of sanity and kindness. More information about the Open Heart Project can be found here. \nOnce you register\, your account will be charged automatically every 30 days\, unless or until you cancel. \nQuestions? Please email Michele \n  URL:https://openheartproject.com/event/mommy-sangha/ CATEGORIES:eCourse END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20160310T163000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20160310T183000 DTSTAMP:20260520T004905 CREATED:20151123T230053Z LAST-MODIFIED:20160219T164318Z UID:10013406-1457627400-1457634600@openheartproject.com SUMMARY:Dharma of Writing Group DESCRIPTION:So many of us say we want to write. When we write\, we come home to ourselves. We have ideas to explore\, stories to tell\, or songs to sing. Writing can illuminate\, clarify\, and heal. \nIn short\, writing is very powerful. Yet\, it is so difficult to begin! This is common and natural. \nThe Dharma of Writing is an ongoing two-hour online monthly gathering designed to help you enter your own writing with the support and companionship of other writers. It will be co-hosted by myself and Kate Lila Wheeler\, a novelist who is also an acclaimed Buddhist teacher. During the months that I host\, we will gather from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. ET and when Kate hosts\, it will be from 4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. ET. (We will alternate months.) This will give people in various time zones a chance to participate. \nAt each session\, we will practice meditation together and then actually write. Each person will work on his or her own project with the quiet\, supportive companionship of writers all over the world. We will convene using the video conference platform\, Zoom. Sessions will be recorded and links sent to all\, so if you can’t join live you can still participate. \nThe schedule for each session is: \n\nGuided mindfulness practice: 15 minutes\nJournaling exercise (“free writing”): 15 minutes\nWriting period: 80 minutes\nCheck-in and close: 10 minutes\n\nNo work will be shared during the class\, but the group will have a private forum on our site for anyone who would like to post their writing. \nOpen to writers of fiction\, non-fiction\, poetry\, screenplays\, and song—and anyone who would simply like to explore writing as a practice. \nSubsequent sessions will take place as follows: \nApril 13 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. (hosted by Susan)\nMay 11 4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. ET (hosted by Kate)\nJune 11 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. (hosted by Susan) \nThis program is for you if you are looking for some gentle accountability and dedicated time for your writing. \n\n\nThe cost is $15 per month or $7.50 per month for Sangha members. (Please click here to learn more about the Sangha.) \nOnce you register\, your account will be charged automatically every 30 days\, unless or until you cancel. (Please note: no partial refunds.) \nIf you are a Sangha member and would like the Sangha link to join please email Michele. \n  \nQuestions? Please email Michele. URL:https://openheartproject.com/event/dharma-of-writing-group-4/ CATEGORIES:eCourse END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20160210T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20160210T200000 DTSTAMP:20260520T004905 CREATED:20151123T230031Z LAST-MODIFIED:20151123T213400Z UID:10013403-1455127200-1455134400@openheartproject.com SUMMARY:Dharma of Writing Group DESCRIPTION:So many of us say we want to write. When we write\, we come home to ourselves. We have ideas to explore\, stories to tell\, or songs to sing. Writing can illuminate\, clarify\, and heal. \nIn short\, writing is very powerful. Yet\, it is so difficult to begin! This is common and natural. \nThe Dharma of Writing is an ongoing two-hour online monthly gathering designed to help you enter your own writing with the support and companionship of other writers. It will be co-hosted by myself and Kate Lila Wheeler\, a novelist who is also an acclaimed Buddhist teacher. During the months that I host\, we will gather from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. ET and when Kate hosts\, it will be from 4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. ET. (We will alternate months.) This will give people in various time zones a chance to participate. \nAt each session\, we will practice meditation together and then actually write. Each person will work on his or her own project with the quiet\, supportive companionship of writers all over the world. We will convene using the video conference platform\, Zoom. Sessions will be recorded and links sent to all\, so if you can’t join live you can still participate. \nThe schedule for each session is: \n\nGuided mindfulness practice: 15 minutes\nJournaling exercise (“free writing”): 15 minutes\nWriting period: 80 minutes\nCheck-in and close: 10 minutes\n\nNo work will be shared during the class\, but the group will have a private forum on our site for anyone who would like to post their writing. \nOpen to writers of fiction\, non-fiction\, poetry\, screenplays\, and song—and anyone who would simply like to explore writing as a practice. \nSubsequent sessions will take place as follows: \nMarch 10   4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. ET (hosted by Kate)\nApril 13   6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. (hosted by Susan)\nMay 11   4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. ET (hosted by Kate)\nJune 11    6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. (hosted by Susan) \nThis program is for you if you are looking for some gentle accountability and dedicated time for your writing. \n\n\nThe cost is $15 per month. Once you register\, your account will be charged automatically every 30 days\, unless or until you cancel. (Please note: no partial refunds.)\n  \nFree for the Open Heart Project Sangha\n(Please click here to learn more about the Sangha.)\n\n  \nQuestions? Please email Michele. URL:https://openheartproject.com/event/dharma-of-writing-group-3/ CATEGORIES:eCourse END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20160204T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20160204T203000 DTSTAMP:20260520T004905 CREATED:20150728T154852Z LAST-MODIFIED:20160125T214711Z UID:10013246-1454612400-1454617800@openheartproject.com SUMMARY:Wisdom of a Broken Heart DESCRIPTION:A 4-week online course with Susan Piver\, Buddhist teacher and author of The Wisdom of a Broken Heart\nWhen it comes to a broken heart\, Buddhism has much to teach. It has guidance for how to survive and make your heart stronger in the process. It can help assuage the symptoms of lost love: obsessive thinking\, shame\, and distrust in love itself. Perhaps most important\, it can help you to love yourself once again and with this\, all things are possible. \nJoin author Susan Piver for a 4-week online course on the mindful approach to heartbreak and love\, based on her book\, The Wisdom of a Broken Heart.* \nOur tools will be: \n\nMeditation (instruction will be offered)\nGuidance for establishing a daily practice\nA 3-part journaling exercise to bring understanding and closure\nRich discussion\nPractical tools for keeping your heart open\, soft\, and powerful\n\nCurriculum:\nClass 1: Relax: Calm anxiety and obsessive thinking: Introduction to meditation practice and its relationship to heartbreak\nClass 2: See Where You Are: The Four Nobles Truths of Love: Reconsider what it means to love and be loved\nClass 3: Be Where You Are: Reclaim Your Seat\nClass 4: The Big Switch: The Practice of Loving Kindness for Self and Other \nSpace is limited\, please register today to secure your spot. \nNo cancellations. \nFree for Open Heart Project Sangha members. (Click here  to learn more about the Sangha and how to receive this and other programs for free.) \nParticipants will receive a recording link to each online class within 24 hours\, so don’t worry if you can’t participate live in each class. \nCourse materials will be available for use for 120 days from registration date. \n*Reading the book would be helpful\, though it is not required. URL:https://openheartproject.com/event/wisdom-of-a-broken-heart/ CATEGORIES:eCourse END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20160121T163000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20160121T183000 DTSTAMP:20260520T004905 CREATED:20151123T230017Z LAST-MODIFIED:20151123T213544Z UID:10013402-1453393800-1453401000@openheartproject.com SUMMARY:Dharma of Writing Group DESCRIPTION:So many of us say we want to write. When we write\, we come home to ourselves. We have ideas to explore\, stories to tell\, or songs to sing. Writing can illuminate\, clarify\, and heal. \nIn short\, writing is very powerful. Yet\, it is so difficult to begin! This is common and natural. \nThe Dharma of Writing is an ongoing two-hour online monthly gathering designed to help you enter your own writing with the support and companionship of other writers. It will be co-hosted by myself and Kate Lila Wheeler\, a novelist who is also an acclaimed Buddhist teacher. During the months that I host\, we will gather from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. ET and when Kate hosts\, it will be from 4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. ET. (We will alternate months.) This will give people in various time zones a chance to participate. \nAt each session\, we will practice meditation together and then actually write. Each person will work on his or her own project with the quiet\, supportive companionship of writers all over the world. We will convene using the video conference platform\, Zoom. Sessions will be recorded and links sent to all\, so if you can’t join live you can still participate. \nThe schedule for each session is: \n\nGuided mindfulness practice: 15 minutes\nJournaling exercise (“free writing”): 15 minutes\nWriting period: 80 minutes\nCheck-in and close: 10 minutes\n\nNo work will be shared during the class\, but the group will have a private forum on our site for anyone who would like to post their writing. \nOpen to writers of fiction\, non-fiction\, poetry\, screenplays\, and song—and anyone who would simply like to explore writing as a practice. \nSubsequent sessions will take place as follows: \nFebruary 10   6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. (hosted by Susan)\nMarch 10   4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. ET (hosted by Kate)\nApril 13   6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. (hosted by Susan)\nMay 11   4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. ET (hosted by Kate)\nJune 11    6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. (hosted by Susan) \nThis program is for you if you are looking for some gentle accountability and dedicated time for your writing. \n\n\n\nThe cost is $15 per month. Once you register\, your account will be charged automatically every 30 days\, unless or until you cancel. (Please note: no partial refunds.) \nFree for the Open Heart Project Sangha\n(Please click here to learn more about the Sangha.)\n\n  \nQuestions? Please email Michele. URL:https://openheartproject.com/event/dharma-of-writing-group-2/ CATEGORIES:eCourse END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20160112T193000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20160112T210000 DTSTAMP:20260520T004905 CREATED:20150728T165313Z LAST-MODIFIED:20151211T040254Z UID:10013247-1452627000-1452632400@openheartproject.com SUMMARY:Dharma of Diet DESCRIPTION:When it comes to food\, diet\, nutrition\, and feeling at home in our bodies\, most people struggle to establish a positive relationship. At best\, we may call a truce predicated on the right ratio of calories to cardio. At worst\, we don’t know what to eat\, feel confused about nutrition\, and can no longer tell whether we are hungry or full. Walking into the market or going out to eat with friends can feel threatening. \nWe think that if we finally find the right “diet” something magical will happen: We will feel lovable and happy and discover lasting well being. To this end\, we restrict calories or food groups\, mete out treats and punishments\, get down on ourselves for any infractions\, and basically hope that the next diet will finally fix us. \nWhat ever happened to feeling alive in our bodies? To taking pleasure in taste? To feeling genuinely nourished?\nSusan Piver will host this four week evening e-Course with the founder of Eat to Love\, nutritionist and certified Intuitive Eating counselor (and good pal)\, Jenna Hollenstein. Together\, we will spend four weeks examining our relationship to food and body image to reduce the fear and confusion we have about this most basic function: eating. \nJenna is a fantastic guide who is incredibly well educated in the latest research about nutrition and diet\, but takes a super sensible and realistic view about how we feed ourselves and the meaning we attribute to what and how we eat. In our initial conversations about this program\, I came up with the phrase “magical eating” to describe how many of us approach food–that if we can just get it right\, we will look and feel perfect. What we may ignore in the quest for the “right” diet is the beauty of food as nourishment and joy. \nPlease note: THIS IS NOT A DIET OR NUTRITION PLAN. Although Jenna has distinct ideas about how to eat for health\, we will not be telling you to cut out gluten or eliminate sugar. I mean\, you can if you want\, but this program is about first exploring your relationship to food\, nutrition\, and your body. Through establishing a relationship of self-compassion and trust\, it is much easier to make the right changes for the right reasons with confidence and ease. \nIn meditation\, we make friends with our minds by noticing what we think and feel. In “The Dharma of Diet\,” our intention is to help you make friends with food by noticing how you relate to it. Through mindfulness meditation and other awareness exercises\, Jenna and Susan will support you to recover the delight of eating.\n \nFree for Open Heart Project Sangha members. Click here to join the Sangha and participate in this and other programs for free)\n \nAll sessions will be recorded and a link made available within 24 hours of the live class. Materials will be accessible for 120 days from registration.\n \nRegister\n \nQuestions? Please email Michele \n\nCurriculum \nWeek One: Relax  \nIntroduction to mindfulness meditation\nMindfulness meditation instruction\nWhat meditation can teach us about eating\nRecovering familiarity with hunger and fullness\nQ&A \nWeek Two: See Where You Are  \nWorking with emotions mindfully\nGetting to know various forms of hunger\, especially heart hunger\nCultivating loving kindness toward yourself\nQ&A \nWeek Three: Be Where You Are \nEstablishing confidence: 5 steps to take\nMeeting the threat of deprivation with loving kindness\nEating for satisfaction by developing an unhurried\, sense-based relationship to food.\nQ&A \nWeek Four: Eat to Love \nMeditation in motion: bringing the mind of meditation into your life\nEmbracing our humanness\nBody acceptance and respect\nWhere to go for further support\nQ&A \n\nFAQS \nI have an eating disorder—can this program help me? \nThis course might not be appropriate for some people with an eating disorder who need to go through a period of recovery before they are able to reconnect with the body’s signals of hunger\, fullness\, and satisfaction. And because it is a group course\, we are not able to address each individual’s specific needs\, which is essential in eating disorder recovery. If you are being treated for an eating disorder or any other psychological condition (or should be)\, you must check with your healthcare provider(s) before enrolling in this program. If you aren’t sure if this course is appropriate for you\, contact Jenna directly at jenna@eat2love.com and we can discuss. \nI can’t make some (or all) of the classes because I am in a different time zone/have to work/will be too tired (and so on). Can I still benefit from the class? \nYes. All sessions will be recorded and a link sent out to all participants within 24 hours of the class. You will have a chance to send in questions you’d like Susan or Jenna to cover in the next class. \nI may not be able to keep up with the class due to work\, travel\, or family reasons. If I miss a week will the material be accessible for a while? \nYes. The material will be posted for 120 days from your registration date so you will be able to visit\, and revisit\, the material as often as you like. \nI am interested in meditation\, but I am NOT interested in religion. Will the class require me to learn any doctrine or accept particular beliefs? \nAbsolutely not. Doctrine and beliefs are an obstacle to meditation. You can benefit from the practice if you are Christian\, Hindu\, Pagan\, atheist\, and so on and on. There is no conflict. \nI want to take this class but the timing is not good for me. Will Susan and Jenna be offering it again? \nThey may\, although at this time there is no plan to do so. \nI’ve never taken an online class. Do I need any special equipment or software? \nNo. The class will be held using the Zoom meeting platform. You will receive a link\, and instructions\, for each class the day before the class.  There will be an opportunity to ask questions during each class via a chat window.  All you need is your computer and an internet connection and you may need to download an app prior to joining your first session.  This only takes about 60 seconds but please complete this step prior to the class start time. \n\nMeet The Instructors \nJenna Hollenstein is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) and a Certified Dietitian Nutritionist (CDN) in New York State with a Bachelors degree in Nutrition from Penn State\, a Masters degree in Nutrition from Tufts University. She is a Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor and the author of Understanding Dietary Supplements\, a handy guide to the evaluation and use of vitamins\, minerals\, herbs\, and botanicals for both consumers and clinicians\, and more recently the memoir Drinking to Distraction. \nBuddhist meditation teacher Susan Piver is the New York Times best selling author of nine books. She is founder of the Open Heart Project\, an international online mindfulness community with close to 15000 members worldwide. Her new book\, “Start Here Now\,” was just published. URL:https://openheartproject.com/event/dharma-of-diet/ CATEGORIES:eCourse END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20160108T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20160108T203000 DTSTAMP:20260520T004905 CREATED:20151216T010036Z LAST-MODIFIED:20170105T030158Z UID:10013199-1452277800-1452285000@openheartproject.com SUMMARY:Mindful Life Toolbox DESCRIPTION:A 35-day immersive master class with mindfulness teacher Susan Piver and organizing expert Andrew Mellen\nI’m very excited to announce the return of this 35-day online program that will teach you a management system for your responsibilities\, objectives\, and even your stuff. Instead of ending each day wondering\, “what just happened?” or “where did I put my keys/phone/dreams?” (as I often do)\, you will know exactly what happened because you planned it that way. I am super excited about this. I did the program last year and we can honestly say that\, one year on\, I am still reaping the benefits of less clutter in my home\, inbox\, mind\, and daily life. – Susan Piver \nTo attain these benefits you need two things: mindfulness and knowledge. Susan will supply the former and Andrew\, the latter. \nAndrew Mellen and Susan Piver have developed a unique process for bringing personal organization and mindfulness together to solve a problem that can seem beyond solving: managing the extraordinary amount of information\, details\, and time drains that stand between us and our goals and dreams. \nThis program is for you if:\n\nYou have spent countless hours devising schedules that you never stick to\nYou are constantly searching for the perfect time-management or organization tool that will stem the tide of information overload—but find that none of them work\nYou are self-employed or work at home and experience confusion about how to structure your day\nLooking at your closets\, to-do lists\, drawers\, or desktop (or all of the above) makes you anxious\nYou simply want to feel more on top of your day\, your stuff\, and your life\n\nThe Mindful Life Toolbox is an opportunity to spend a month taking stock of your responsibilities and objectives and the obstacles that stand in your way. You will learn how you spend your time and how to make the shifts you want. You will take stock of the “stuff” of your life and establish a system for managing it. At the end of this program\, you will have greater clarity and a sense of balance in your daily endeavors. \nJanuary 8 – 6:30-8:30p.m. EST: The program begins with a two-hour webinar where you will learn how to meditate\, understand the connection between mindfulness and personal organization\, and learn the goals\, objectives\, and expectations for this program. \nJanuary 9-18: You will begin to apply the lessons of this program immediately. You will receive a detailed plan for gradually introducing mediation into your day. Most important: track your time for a full 10 days. This will be explained in detail\, including suggested apps if you want to track via your mobile device\, on January 8. \nJanuary 18-29: Continue to meditate and simply observe the way you spend your time\, making special note of obstacles\, pitfalls\, and challenges. Don’t implement anything drastic\, just notice. \nJanuary 30 – 10a.m.-5:30p.m. EST and\nJanuary 31 – 10a.m.-1:15p.m. EST: This process culminates with a weekend workshop intensive. Armed with data (and a regular meditation practice)\, you will take stock of your environment and objectives and learn how to bring it all together into a manageable system. \nFebruary 13 – 10 a.m.-12:00p.m. EST: Two weeks later\, we will reconvene for a 75-minute afternoon gathering to check in and address any questions or concerns. \nSupplies:\nA calendar\nA notebook\nA pen/pencil\nInternet access \nFor a detailed schedule\, click here \nLimited to 100 people \nEarly Bird Price: $198 until December 22nd \nBird Price: $243 until January 8th \nLate Bird: $270 on January 8th\n* all amounts USD \nOpen Heart Project Sangha members will receive four additional checklists not available on Andrew’s website and being shared with us exclusively. \nMaterials are made available for 120 days from registration date. \nQuestions? Please email Michele \nRegister\nMore about Andrew\n \nBest-selling Author of “Unstuff Your Life! Kick the Clutter Habit and Completely Organize Your Life for Good” \nAndrew’s humor\, honesty\, tough love and foolproof strategies have won fans and followers from Fortune 500 CEOs\, award-winning artists\, and older adults to overwhelmed moms and dads everywhere. He’s maintained a private practice for over 18 years\, as well as leading workshops and speaking worldwide on stuff\, sustainability  and simplifying your life. \nAs a sought-after expert on organizing and productivity\, Andrew is often called “The Most Organized Man in America”.  Here are just a few of the places he’s appeared: Tricycle\, Real Simple\, This Old House\, The New York Times\, The Wall Street Journal\, The Nate Berkus Show\, Oprah Magazine\, Martha Stewart Living Today\, Ladies’ Home Journal\, Family Circle\, GQ\, Women’s Day\, HGTV and NPR\, along with many others. \nHis private clients range from American Express\, Goldman Sachs and the Metropolitan Museum of Art to the U.S. Departments of Education and Homeland Security. \nA long-time meditation practitioner\, he often teaches on the intersection of organizing and spirituality at venues including Omega Institute\, San Francisco Zen Center\, Center for Spiritual Enlightenment and NY Open Center\, where he is on the faculty. URL:https://openheartproject.com/event/mindful-life-toolbox-2/ CATEGORIES:eCourse END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20151215T193000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20151215T210000 DTSTAMP:20260520T004906 CREATED:20150908T204108Z LAST-MODIFIED:20151117T033650Z UID:10013289-1450207800-1450213200@openheartproject.com SUMMARY:The Dharma of Simple DESCRIPTION:A special evening event exploring the intersection of personal organization and meditation.\nWe all want to feel confident heading into a new year. As you may have learned from the Open Heart Project\, genuine confidence is not necessarily about “believing” in yourself—it is a way of being in the world. To live with confidence\, according to Buddhist teachings\, you don’t have to change anything about your psychology\, rather\, you can create small shifts in the environment in which you live. \nThe simplest way to make those small shifts is by getting organized and improving your relationship with time. \nIn this 90-minute class\, Andrew will introduce us to The Organizational Triangle®\, three simple and powerful rules for getting and staying organized. He’ll discuss easy and sustainable ways to address the obstacles we all face in managing very busy lives. From dealing with papers and filing to time management\, and from photographs to sentimental objects\, his simple system can help you finally get a handle on it all. \nOur intention for this evening is to help you reorder the one place or “hot spot” that is making you most unhappy and give you the tools you need to keep it ordered for good. You’ll also learn how to apply the same techniques to every other area where you feel disorganized\, overwhelmed or stuff-challenged. \nWhen Andrew offers this program elsewhere\, he charges $97 or more. Because we are pals\, he’s willing to offer this to our community for only $29. A DEAL! \n  \nRegister\n  \n  \nNo cancellations\nLIMITED TO 100 PARTICIPANTS\nParticipants will also receive Andrew’s Top 10 Tips for Starting the New Year with Confidence checklist.\n(Last time we ran this program\, it sold out seriously fast. Please reserve your spot sooner rather than later.) \nThe session will be recorded and a link sent to participants. The recording will be available for 30 days.The day before the webinar\, you’ll receive an email with details for joining the live event. \n(OPEN HEART PROJECT SANGHA members: You will be able to access a recording of this webinar for free from December 16th-20th. If you would like to join the Sangha to receive this free viewing and participate in many other programs free of charge\, please click here.) \nAbout Andrew:\nBest-selling Author of “Unstuff Your Life! Kick the Clutter Habit and Completely Organize Your Life for Good” \nAndrew’s humor\, honesty\, tough love and foolproof strategies have won fans and followers from Fortune 500 CEOs\, award-winning artists\, and older adults to overwhelmed moms and dads everywhere. He’s maintained a private practice for over 18 years\, as well as leading workshops and speaking worldwide on stuff\, sustainability and simplifying your life. \nAs a sought-after expert on organizing and productivity\, Andrew is often called “The Most Organized Man in America.” Here are just a few of the places he’s appeared: Tricycle\, Real Simple\, This Old House\, The New York Times\, The Wall Street Journal\, The Nate Berkus Show\, Oprah Magazine\, Martha Stewart Living Today\, Ladies’ Home Journal\, Family Circle\, GQ\, Women’s Day\, HGTV and NPR\, along with many others. \nHis private clients range from American Express\, Goldman Sachs and the Metropolitan Museum of Art to the U.S. Departments of Education and Homeland Security. \nA long-time meditation practitioner\, he often teaches on the intersection of organizing and spirituality at venues including Omega Institute\, San Francisco Zen Center\, Center for Spiritual Enlightenment and NY Open Center\, where he is on the faculty. \n \n  \n  URL:https://openheartproject.com/event/the-dharma-of-simple/ CATEGORIES:eCourse END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20151210T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20151210T200000 DTSTAMP:20260520T004906 CREATED:20151123T230051Z LAST-MODIFIED:20151210T225131Z UID:10013405-1449770400-1449777600@openheartproject.com SUMMARY:Dharma of Writing Group DESCRIPTION:So many of us say we want to write. When we write\, we come home to ourselves. We have ideas to explore\, stories to tell\, or songs to sing. Writing can illuminate\, clarify\, and heal. \nIn short\, writing is very powerful. Yet\, it is so difficult to begin! This is common and natural. \nThe Dharma of Writing is an ongoing two-hour online monthly gathering designed to help you enter your own writing with the support and companionship of other writers. It will be co-hosted by myself and Kate Lila Wheeler\, a novelist who is also an acclaimed Buddhist teacher. During the months that I host\, we will gather from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. ET and when Kate hosts\, it will be from 4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. ET. (We will alternate months.) This will give people in various time zones a chance to participate. \nAt each session\, we will practice meditation together and then actually write. Each person will work on his or her own project with the quiet\, supportive companionship of writers all over the world. We will convene using the video conference platform\, Zoom. Sessions will be recorded and links sent to all\, so if you can’t join live you can still participate. \nThe schedule for each session is: \n\nGuided mindfulness practice: 15 minutes\nJournaling exercise (“free writing”): 15 minutes\nWriting period: 80 minutes\nCheck-in and close: 10 minutes\n\nNo work will be shared during the class\, but the group will have a private forum on our site for anyone who would like to post their writing. \nOpen to writers of fiction\, non-fiction\, poetry\, screenplays\, and song—and anyone who would simply like to explore writing as a practice. \nThe first session is December 10th at 6:00 p.m. ET and subsequent sessions will take place as follows: \nJanuary 21   4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. ET (hosted by Kate)\nFebruary 10   6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. (hosted by Susan)\nMarch 10   4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. ET (hosted by Kate)\nApril 13   6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. (hosted by Susan)\nMay 11   4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. ET (hosted by Kate)\nJune 11    6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. (hosted by Susan) \nThis program is for you if you are looking for some gentle accountability and dedicated time for your writing. \n\n\n\nThe cost is $15 per month. Once you register\, your account will be charged automatically every 30 days\, unless or until you cancel.   (Please note: no partial refunds.) \nFree for the Open Heart Project Sangha\n(Please click here to learn more about the Sangha.)\n\n  \nQuestions? Please email Michele. \n\n\n  URL:https://openheartproject.com/event/dharma-of-writing-group/ CATEGORIES:eCourse END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR