1. The Nature of the Practice

The program includes an orientation, eight weekly 2.5-hour classes, an all-day silent retreat, and approximately 45 minutes of daily home practice. The 8-Week MBSR course includes mindful movement, sitting and walking meditation, body scan practice, group dialogue, and reflection on personal experience. Participation may surface physical sensations, emotions, memories (including grief or memories of past trauma), or thoughts — some of which may be unfamiliar or, at times, uncomfortable.

2. Assumption of Risk

I understand that participating in this course involves physical, emotional, and mental engagement, and that my own history and circumstances are part of what I bring to the practice. I’ve made my own decision to participate, understand these dimensions of the course, and take them on knowingly.

In consideration of my participation, I, on behalf of myself and my heirs, executors, and administrators, release, indemnify, and hold harmless Robin Patino and Creating a New Now from claims, losses, costs, or expenses relating to my participation in this course — including any physical or emotional experience that arises from it — except where caused by gross negligence or intentional misconduct.

3. Health & Self-Monitoring

I affirm that I’m not aware of any health condition that would prevent me from participating safely. I understand it’s my responsibility to let the instructor know about anything relevant to my participation, to monitor my own physical and emotional experience throughout the course, and to pause or step back from a particular practice if it doesn’t feel right for me in the moment. I agree to notify the instructor promptly if I experience significant or unmanageable distress at any point during the course.

4. Health & Medical Care

I understand that the 8-Week MBSR course is an educational program. It is not a substitute for medical or psychological diagnosis, treatment, or psychotherapy, and the instructor serves as a mindfulness educator, not as my therapist, doctor, or counselor.

If I am currently receiving medical or psychological care, I am encouraged to let my provider know I am taking this course. I will not change or stop any medication or treatment without first consulting my healthcare provider.

I am responsible for any medical, psychological, or other care expenses I may incur during the course. The instructor does not provide medical insurance or medical oversight.

5. Acknowledgment

At checkout, you’ll confirm by ticking a box and typing your full name that you’ve read and understood this Acknowledgment, that you’re voluntarily choosing to participate in the Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) course, and that you’re at least 18 years old. The date is recorded with your enrollment.

Acknowledgment is governed by the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.