Dr. Shayna Kaufmann, Clinical Psychologist

About

My appreciation of the magic of meditation started two decades ago when I first stepped foot into a Zen meditation center. As a clinical psychologist versed in wellness tools and keenly aware of my own "stuff," I was uncertain what else meditation could offer. I went there with a skeptical curiosity, but instantly resonated with the conceptual underpinnings of practicing "presence" and, more so, the direct experience of those precious moments. I was instantly "sold" and meditating has been an integral part of my life and work. ever since.As a result, I am more self-aware, more compassionate, and have more gracefully navigated many difficult times. Yet, even with this first-hand knowledge, I still find it challenging to meditate alone. Though meditating with a community is mostly a silent experience, the shared commitment and support to practice is invaluable. My Embrace The Middle offerings all incorporate mindfulness (along with courage, compassion and self-awareness) as foundations to explore, re-set and recharge our lives in "the middle."