A MEDITATION course is starting next month to help residents cope with stress during the recession. Vanessa Hope from Wildhill is a specialist in Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MCBT). The honorary lecturer with the Centre for Mindfulness

A MEDITATION course is starting next month to help residents cope with stress during the recession.

Vanessa Hope from Wildhill is a specialist in Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MCBT).

The honorary lecturer with the Centre for Mindfulness Research and Practice, at Bangor University, believes as the credit crunch takes hold anxiety is going through the roof and is setting up her specialised course to help the situation.

Vanessa said: "Redundancy and money worries place added strain on relationships, trigger stress, cause sleepless nights, and can also increase the risk of developing depression."

She added: "MBCT is based on the premise of paying attention and coming into the present moment.

"By learning to step out of the hustle and bustle of life, you give yourself time to simply be, and by recognising when your mind is caught in unhelpful thought patterns you can untangle yourself, come back to the present and relieve stress."

The eight-week course starts on September 11, from 10am to noon, at The Friends Meeting House, on Handside Lane, WGC.

The class will focus on aiming to help you relax, as well as giving boosted self confidence and a greater enjoyment of life.

Alongside the therapy, it is advised you practise skills at home on a daily basis.

Simple things like stretching, swimming, walking or sitting down with your favourite drink or snack; turning off the TV or radio, putting down the magazine and simply enjoying the taste, the smell, the texture, the colours of what you are eating or drinking.

Another practice you can do anywhere is to give yourself some breathing space - stopping and pausing, becoming completely aware of yourself.

The course is �275 and includes a full day's treatment.

To book or for more information call 01707 644309, or visit www.mindfulnessforhealth.co.uk