**Bookings are now open for the Autumn 8-Week Mindfulness, Self-Compassion & Connection Course for Gay Men.** Based on the evidence-based Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) programme, this course has been specially adapted to explore the unique experiences and challenges faced by gay men. Over eight weeks you'll learn practical mindfulness skills to help you: • Feel calmer and less overwhelmed by stress, anxiety and difficult emotions. • Develop greater self-awareness and self-compassion. • Break free from unhelpful thinking patterns and automatic habits. • Build healthier relationships by becoming more present and emotionally aware. • Create sustainable mindfulness practices that support everyday wellbeing. [BOOK HERE](https://bookwhen.com/evolvingminds#focus=ev-svamz-20261014184500) **More than a mindfulness course** One of the biggest surprises from the Spring course was that it became much more than a mindfulness programme—it became a community. Participants not only learnt practical mindfulness skills, but formed genuine friendships that have continued beyond the course. The WhatsApp group is still active, with members continuing to meet socially. Research into the world's longest-lived communities (the *Blue Zones*) suggests that wellbeing depends not only on reducing stress, but also on feeling connected, having supportive relationships and a sense of belonging. These are themes that participants repeatedly described in their feedback. One participant wrote: *"I can't recommend Nick's MBCT course for gay men highly enough. The experience was genuinely transformative. Beyond the personal growth, I met some wonderfully supportive people, and the sense of community was something I truly valued. If you're considering this course, take the leap. It made a real difference for me."* **Course details** **Dates:** Wednesdays 14 October – 2 December 2026 (8 weeks) **Time:** 6.45pm – 9.15pm **Venue:** Canary Wharf (Approximately 15 minutes from Jubilee/Elizabeth

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