Caring for the Caregiver
Those working in caregiving and youth professions often face high levels of stress, anxiety, and physical strain, which can impact their quality of life (McBee, 2003). While support resources do exist, accessing them can be challenging due to financial, geographical, and bureaucratic barriers.
Many programmes have been developed to support those in demanding care roles, ranging from illness-specific support to more general approaches. Recent research highlights mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) as effective tools for reducing burnout and improving well-being among caregivers (Lewis et al., 2012; Wahbeh et al., 2010; Zylowska, 2015). One study (Carlson et al., 2008) found MBIs significantly more effective than standard caregiver education support programmes.
Since 1998, The Sanctuary has delivered mindfulness and meditation courses to social care and youth organisations. Building on this work, we created the Mindfully Compassionate Wellbeing Programme—a practical, accessible course supporting those working in the caring field.
Course Content & Themes
Workshops include guided practices, presentations, discussion, and group exercises. Participants will explore:
- What is mindfulness?
- Acceptance and self-compassion
- The power of intention and motivation
- Mind-body connection and embodiment
- Gratitude as a practice
- Mindful movement
- Polyvagal theory and the "tend and befriend" response
All participants receive recorded practices for continued use after the course.
Programme Formats & Fees
1. 8-Week Programme – €250 (non-profit rate)
- Intro Wellbeing Day (10am–4pm, in person)
- 8-week MBLC course (online via Zoom)
- Concluding Day of Practice (10am–4pm, in person)
2. 1-Day Workshop (16–20 people)
- €760 / €620 for non-profits
- In-person at The Sanctuary or offsite (10am–4pm)
3. Half-Day Workshop (16–20 people)
- €400 / €390 for non-profits
- In-person at The Sanctuary or offsite (10am–2pm)
☕ Tea and coffee included
🍽️ Catered lunch available on request for an additional fee
