There is one thing that when cultivated and regularly practiced, leads to deep spiritual intention, to peace, to mindfulness and clear comprehension, to vision and knowledge, to a happy life here and now, and to the culmination of wisdom and awakening. And what is that one thing? It is mindfulness centred on the body.
||Siddharta Guatama
What is Embodied Presence?
The Embodied Presence program is a transformative five-week journey into mindfulness through a somatic lens. It combines ancient wisdom from the Buddhist tradition with modern insights from neuroscience, parts work, and somatic psychotherapy.
This course invites you to go beyond mindfulness as a mental practice and engage with it as a full-body experience so that you may -
- Cultivate calm and clarity, even in challenging moments.
- Deepen your connection to yourself and your emotions.
- Build resilience and foster greater compassion in your life.
Join us live via Zoom from anywhere in the world, or enjoy lifetime access to the recordings to revisit the practices whenever you need them.
A Bit About Me
My name is Natalie Rousseau and I will be your guide in this program. I am a Relational Somatic Therapist and I began my practice of meditation in the late 90's when I was introduced to Zen Buddhism. Since then, I have studied various approaches to meditation from Buddhist & Tantric lineages and modern mindfulness schools. Mindfulness & self-compassion form the foundation of my own personal practice, and I delight in sharing these practices with others.
What to Expect
This program is designed to support your journey into mindfulness with a rich blend of somatic and meditative practices. Whether you're new to meditation or an experienced practitioner, each session offers tools to deepen your awareness and connection.
Each class includes:
- 10–15-minute somatic practice: Engage with gentle, body-based exercises to ground yourself and enhance your embodied awareness.
- 10-minute dharma talk: Explore the day’s theme with clarity and depth.
- 20-minute guided meditation: Cultivate somatic mindfulness through focused practice.
- 5-minute relaxation practice: Anchor in calm and ease.
- 15–20-minute Q&A or discussion: Share reflections, ask questions, and build connection.
Program Curriculum
Week 1: Embodied Presence
Learn the foundations of somatic mindfulness and connect with your body's innate wisdom.
Week 2: Noticing & Naming
Strengthen concentration and cultivate equanimity by observing and naming your experience.
Week 3: Embodying Resources
Build inner resilience and tap into resources that nourish your well-being.
Week 4: Meeting Ourselves in Kindness
Befriend and tend to all parts of yourself with self-compassion and care.
Week 5: The Power of Compassion
Expand your capacity for compassion toward yourself and others, creating a ripple effect of kindness in your life.
Dates & Program Details
When: Friday mornings, Jan 17-Feb 14th, 2025
Class Times: 10-11am PST
Where: Live on Zoom (with recordings available for lifetime access)
All sessions are recorded and hosted on Teachable, allowing you to revisit the materials anytime.
FAQs
Do I need to have experience with meditation to take this program?
No, you do not. This program is open to anyone who has an interest in learning more about the practices of mindfulness.
Will the classes be recorded?
Yes. All classes will be taught live via Zoom and recorded for later viewing. The class recordings will be housed here on Teachable and you will have forever access to them.
Do I need to sit on the floor to practice?
No, you do not. You can meditate sitting in a chair, standing, or even walking. Information about posture choices will be provided in the program.
What type of personal support will be offered?
Each class will conclude with a 15 minute Q&A session where you can ask questions or receive support for your practice. You can also reach out to me directly via email during the program.
Are these practices trauma-informed?
Absolutely. I am a Relational Somatic Therapist, and I have taken specific training programs on trauma-informed mindfulness. I know firsthand how powerful mindfulness practices can be in managing the impacts of trauma. I will provide support to all practitioners in this regard.