By: Matt Poirier

If you were visiting our head office at 20 Spadina Road any Wednesday evening over the last two months, you may have felt an aura of calm energy enveloping the lobby. This wasn’t your imagination as Family Link, in partnership with Central Region Council, presented parents and caregivers with a six week Mindfulness Program which ran from January 20^th to February 24^th.

The program, facilitated by Sue Hutton, MSW, is specifically designed for parents, siblings and caregivers of individuals with an intellectual disability. Its aim is to provide them with tools to help increase family well-being, lower stress, improve focus and support them in connecting with other families who are experiencing similar challenges. With childcare provided by Community Living Toronto volunteers, the two hour sessions provided an opportunity for parents to learn, release and reflect; things all of us rarely have the chance to do in today’s hectic world.

With the peace of mind of knowing their children were safe and occupied with volunteers, participants were able to focus solely on being present in the moment, and really feel the power of the meditation practices taught by Sue. When the sessions were over, participants took advantage of the opportunity to connect with each other, share experiences and talk about what helps them overcome challenging situations when supporting a loved one with a disability.

The program was partly funded by Central Region Council which made it more financially accessible for families who otherwise might not invest in a program that some would consider a ‘luxury’, but is becoming more and more of a necessity. When the program ended in February, participants were thrilled with the results which spoke volumes to the power of Mindfulness as something that’s beneficial not only for them, but for other families, youth and children of all ages.

One participant said, “This was the first thing I’ve done for myself in years. I’ve learned to pause and be in the moment which has allowed me to not only be a better mom, but also feel better about myself as a person. I feel calmer and happier, and motivated to keep up the practice with my kids.”

Overall, a total of ten people walked away with a new toolkit of Mindfulness practices they can draw upon when they’re feeling stressed and overwhelmed. Plans are in place to hold a follow up session for participants later this spring to discuss their experiences and commitment to practicing mindfulness and meditation. Stay tuned for details on possible future Mindfulness programs!

Upcoming Central Events

Central Region Council Meeting

Tuesday, April 12, 2016 at 6:00 pm

20 Spadina Rd, Room 2B    All are welcome. Contact Matt Poirier at 647-729-1210 or matthew.poirier@cltoronto.ca

Central Region Council’s Spring Fling Dinner & Dance
Saturday, May 14^th, 2016
Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre
Tickets are $50 each.
Buy tickets online at:  https://www.gifttool.com/registrar/ShowEventDetails?ID=134&EID=19487or contact Matt Poirier.