About

Kristen Swanson

Kristen launched Green Thoughts: A Mindfulness Community to help others discover the emotional regulation, sense of connection, and appreciation for life that a regular mindfulness practice can bring.

After completing her Master of Education degree and becoming a certified Ontario teacher, Kristen’s career in education led her to The British School of Bucharest in Romania. While the fast-paced lifestyle was exciting, after several years she began to develop stress-related health issues.

In her search for balance and a healthier lifestyle, Kristen discovered mindfulness meditation. The practice was transformative and has since become an integral part of her life.

Kristen’s newfound passion led her to train with the Centre for Mindfulness Studies as a Facilitator of the 8-Week Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Program (MBSR). She also trained in the Mindful Schools curriculum and became a qualified Restorative Yoga teacher to incorporate gentle yoga techniques into mindfulness training.

Why Green Thoughts?

Practicing mindfulness gives people the space and the time they need to cultivate new thoughts and attitudes towards life. Just like a garden, the mind requires daily attention to thrive. As a gardener for many years, I came to admire the unhurried growth of plants. In my opinion, plant growth mirrors the personal growth experienced through mindfulness; it is a consistent, patient and graceful engagement with the constant change that is life.

Green Thoughts meet-ups explore everything from formal meditation techniques to mindful eating, walking, stretching and mindful self-compassion. Activities are supported by discussion and an examination of research in the field.

What is Mindfulness?

“Mindfulness is paying attention to present moment experiences with open curiosity and a willingness to be with what is.” Diana Winston, Mindfulness Educator

Mindfulness is a non-religious practice that anyone can use to deepen their everyday experience. It involves paying attention to our present moment experience with a curious, non-judgemental, compassionate attitude. We can practice this attitude any time, be it through meditation or by bringing mindful attention to daily activities such as walking, eating and communicating.