LAKE COUNTY, Calif. – The start time for the hour-long Wednesday Community Mindfulness Meditation group offered free via Zoom video conference will change to 7 p.m. beginning Wednesday, April 29.

The community meditation group is facilitated by MTI certified mindfulness teacher and author JoAnn Saccato, MA, and is for those wishing to learn and practice mindfulness meditation in a safe, welcoming group setting.

The one-hour session begins with a brief talk, followed by a period of guided practice and includes time for shared reflection and questions. Beginners, experienced practitioners and drop-ins are welcome for this growing online community. No previous mindfulness or meditation experience is necessary.

"With the challenging nature of our time, there has never been a better time for practicing mindfulness," explained Saccato. "While having to practice shelter in place and social distancing, we can practice meeting this experience and each other with a kind and loving awareness. We can do so as a community staying connected while remaining apart."

Mindfulness is an umbrella term used for a large body of popular health and wellness practices based on purposefully bringing a curious, kind and nonjudgmental attention to moment by moment experience.

This scientifically proven approach helps reduce stress and stress-related illnesses, increase focus and attention, decrease incidences of and relapses with depression, reduce anxiety, reduce relapses in addiction, and aids in sleep and digestive disorders. It has also been shown to increase well being, life satisfaction and happiness, as well as improved social relationships.

Saccato has been practicing mindfulness for over 25 years and teaching in Lake County, California since 2013 with an emphasis on stress reduction, anxiety, emotional reactivity, trauma, disaster resiliency and addiction recovery.

Stillness, gentle movement, kindness and compassion practices are explored during the weekly one-hour event. Participants are encouraged to wear comfortable clothing.

The group is offered via Zoom video conference and pre-registration is required. Register by visiting this link. It is ideal to have stable internet and a video camera to participate, but telephone options are available and all are welcome.

Saccato is author of two books on mindfulness. Her most recent book, “Mindful and Intentional Living: A Path to Peace, Clarity and Freedom,” teaches the foundational practices of mindfulness. Saccato offers workshops, courses and mindfulness-based coaching.

For more information on the weekly community mindfulness group and other offerings, visit www.MindfulAndIntentionalLiving.com or call 707-350-1719.