Manidha taught a 6-week meditation class at Group Health where we worked together. I had tried meditation numerous times in the past, but my previous attempts were unsuccessful - I just couldn't seem to focus in the exact way we were being instructed, sitting with my eyes closed made me dizzy, and I just didn't like it. Manidha had us sample and practice - a number of different types of meditations and that made it easy to find several that especially appealed to me despite my prior frustrating experiences. I was able to incorporate meditation into my daily life, in part because of Manidha's encouragement and in part because I was able to learn from her the skills that enabled me to relax my body quickly, allowing me to give myself permission to meditate for relatively brief periods of time and not to become discouraged if I didn't have a long period of time available to meditate. Manidha also gave members of our class time to share our experiences with the various meditations, which I found very valuable. In addition, she went out of her way for us as individuals - I had to miss the last 2 of the 6 classes due to out of town work commitments, and she met with me privately to cover the class material with me. I felt that was going above and beyond the call of duty, particularly for a class that she was teaching purely on a volunteer basis, and I deeply appreciated her extra effort and caring. I believe that her skills and experience, and her calm, purposeful demeanor will allow her to be a fabulous meditation teacher for all age groups.
Jill R. Rosenthal, MD
I would like to express my gratitude to you, especially today, when I had to testify in court. I was totally out of my element, but drew on the mindfulness skills I learned in your 6-week series, and not only did the right words flow out of my mouth, but I was calm throughout. Those skills were very helpful to me today as they have been since you introduced them to me over a year ago. We often never find out how we impact others, but I would like you to know that you have improved my life in a very personal and direct way.
Sandi Gerling, CNM, ARNP
I got so much out of Manidha's meditation class the first time I took it, I signed up to take it again. One of the most important things I learned is that meditation can be done anywhere, anytime; no special equipment or setting are needed. With as little as one breath, I can refocus, calm down and re-energize. A second important thing I learned is that meditation is practice, with a life-long learning curve. That is why it is so valuable to make time for meditation every day. Just as an athlete practices for the big event, a daily meditation practice enables a person to face life's challenges with clarity, intention and a sense of inner-wellness. This makes a big difference in life.
Verna Lilly, LPN
I have known Manidha for 20 years. our relationship began with Manidha as my supervisor, then the clinic manager, then my teacher. I should not have ended that last sentence with the word 'teacher.' I should have begun the sentence that way. From day one, I had the opportunity to observe Manidha in so many different circumstances from dire to comical. Dire when something drastic happened in our department and she made sure she was a positive presence at all times and comical when we were on strike and she was in management. She started walking with me and I asked if she could hold my sign for just a moment. She almost took that sign and we both just laughed! I was invited to join her instructional meditation group. Although I had not meditated in many years, I felt the need to reacquaint myself with the practice. I was already so comfortable with and trusting of Manidha. I was quick to sign up. Of course, I was not disappointed, as her gentle and calm demeanor transferred to her teaching. I am so excited that she has chosen to head down the path of a teacher full time.
Rose Long
Health Unit Coordinator
I have recently completed this thoughtful and engaging 7-week course in mindfulness taught by Manidha. The course included recordings of guided meditations involving body scans, mindfulness of breathing, movement, and loving kindness. My VA health care providers began sending me to in-house mindfulness classes, much like this one. Funding began to severely limit access to further pursuit. While I supplemented my education with library recordings and downloadable guides of various meditation teachers from around the world, I eventually googled mindfulness in Tacoma and found this website.
I would have to say how much I will continue to treasure having Manidha as both my currently recorded, as well as in person, mindfulness guide. Her take on meditation education and practice is sound and wise. I intend to continue to attend her ongoing drop-in sessions to keep in touch and to expand my practice further to include the ever growing mindfulness community.
Jeff Noyes
I found the meditation and mindfulness class to be quite helpful in helping me cultivate in my life both increased relaxation and a focus on present experience. In the class, Manidha did an excellent job of teaching an interesting progression of mindfulness and meditation techniques. The group discussions also added a variety of ideas, insights, and experiences. In summary, I can highly recommend this class.
Ken Zirinsky, MD