University course: Mindfulness in Medical, Psychosocial and Educational Professions

Since completing my psychology degree at the University of Vienna in 2010, I have attended numerous (subject-specific) further education and training courses. None has had such a lasting and profound impact on my life as this mindfulness course. It was the very first training course that I would say had a noticeable impact on and changed not only my professional but also my private (family) life. Life and its challenges have not changed significantly, but the way in which I relate (internally and externally) to difficulties has become more healing. The course was self-awareness and knowledge transfer in one – a combination that I, as a psychologist, would wish for in all further training courses.
The pleasant and appreciative atmosphere of the small group, the enormous wealth of experience of the teachers and their willingness to share their theoretical and practical knowledge with us, the stimulation and encouragement of our own daily practice, the supervision of this practice, as well as the joint silent retreats were valuable and well-considered building blocks that contributed to the lasting effect of what was taught. Many thanks for this. Sasa Duric

I came into contact with mindfulness several years ago and have learnt to appreciate it as a valuable support in everyday life, especially in my professional life as a manager in business. The mindfulness course at SFU Vienna deepened my own practice enormously and broadened my understanding of the subject. The mix of daily practice at home, supervision, seminars, 2 retreats and above all the exchange with course colleagues and the highly competent teachers were unique and decisive for me in the experience that I can make a difference in my life towards a more fulfilling life. As a result, I am now much better able to anchor myself in the here and now, to be present, to step out of “autopilot” and to promote healing. In professional practice, this means a completely different, easier way of dealing with difficult situations, an increase in creativity, a better realisation of my own potential, a reduction in stress and more enjoyment at work.
I can only recommend the course to anyone who wants to steer their life in the direction of more healing awareness, both privately and professionally. DI Dr Michael Strobl

I became aware of the course through an event organised by SFU, and as I had already come into contact with the topic of mindfulness a few years ago, it was obviously exactly the right time to take a closer look at it during my reorientation phase at the time. The course as a combination of various (also theoretical) inputs and different instructions as well as the supervisions and the two retreats was extremely helpful to develop mindfulness as an attitude and, above all, to internalise it. In addition to the regular individual practice, the exchange and joint practice with the other course participants and the very appreciative contribution of the teachers were particularly important for my own progress.
My approach to issues and problems, whether in a professional or private context, has since been increasingly characterised by a lack of prejudice and serenity, precisely because I have learned not only that but also how it is possible to consciously step out of patterns and automatisms. Sabine Leeb

Mail: harald.tichy@sfu.ac.at

• Publication by Dr Tichy
• Recording of the book presentation The art of being present