Join Healthy Acadia's Sonya Connelly and Ursula Hanson for a free, 3-class series to learn tips and tools for boosting mindfulness and self-compassion as parents or caregivers to young children. Classes are scheduled for Tuesdays, August 5, 12, and 19 from 5 to 6:30 PM at the library.

The library will provide activities for kids ages 5+ so you can focus on the workshop. We will also provide pizza and a drawing for one $20 gas card per event.

About the Series:

Mindfulness and self-compassion are inner resources that allow us to soothe and regulate ourselves in the presence of stress and anxiety, teaching us to handle the challenges of parenting with a gentler and more forgiving attitude. Experience the essence of mindfulness in this introductory session, inviting parents to be curious about cultivating a greater presence in daily life. Through guided meditation, gentle exercises, and practical tips, we'll explore how mindfulness can help reduce stress, enhance focus, and improve overall well-being.

This class series provides a relaxed, judgment-free environment to:

• Discover the basics of mindfulness practices
• Learn simple techniques to bring awareness into everyday moments of parenting
• Understand how mindfulness fosters emotional balance and clarity

No prior experience is needed—just bring an open mind and a willingness to explore. You will leave with practical tools to support your mindfulness journey.

About Your Coaches:

Sonya Connelly has served as the Communications and Community Outreach Coordinator at Healthy Acadia since 2020. She holds a master’s degree in counseling and has extensive experience in bereavement support and spiritual formation. With decades of experience in mindfulness, meditation, and contemplative practices, Sonya is passionate about simplicity and slow living.

Ursula Hanson, LCSW, has led Healthy Acadia’s Mindfulness in Education Program and the Monthly Mindfulness Series since 2017. With over
15 years of experience as a therapist, Ursula has used mindfulness to manage her own anxiety and enhance her overall well-being.