Community
We understand the importance of practicing together, supporting and inspiring each other in our practice, and learning from one another by example
The Midwest Alliance for Mindfulness (MAM) is a community of people from all walks of life, unaffiliated with any particular religious faith, practicing mindfulness and meditation together and supporting one another toward greater presence and awareness in daily living. Together we are creating a revolution from the inside out.
Mindfulness is a way of being that involves intentional, nonjudgmental and compassionate awareness of moment by moment experience. The ability to be fully present is inherent in us all and can be cultivated with practice. MAM is dedicated to helping people nurture this state of being. Our intention is to provide an inclusive environment in which all people can feel welcome and comfortable.
We offer a wide range of practice opportunities and services. Currently we maintain professional and practice communities with shared values and attitudes, providing support, encouragement, accountability, and spreading awareness. We also partner with a number of philanthropic organizations in our area to bring mindfulness to underserved populations. Read about our Mindful Kansas City Initiative.
We offer weekly group practice opportunities, Mindfulness Based Programs (MBSR, MBCT, MSC), residential and non-residential retreats, experiential classes and courses for the general public, and continuing education programs for professionals who offer mindfulness in their services to others. MAM is an approved continuing education provider through the Kansas Behavioral Sciences Regulatory Board.
Our teachers are trained by organizations such as UCSD, UCLA, UMass, Brown University, the Center for Mindful Self Compassion, Upaya Zen Center, and the Teacher Certification Program with Tara Brach and Jack Kornfield. Many have specializations in areas such as mental health, yoga, and mindful movement, diversity, equity and inclusion and in working with specific populations such as children and teens, first responders, people of color, and the LGBTQIA+ community.
A number of our teachers have training and experience in offering Mindfulness Based Programs (such as Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction and Mindful Self Compassion), Acceptance and Commitment Training, trauma informed mindfulness, mindful communication, and mindful schools. About half of us are mental health professionals, but we also come from backgrounds in education, public safety, public relations, and the creative arts. Visit our directory to learn more about us.