The Centre for Wellbeing

What’s Wellbeing?The concept of wellbeing represents a proactive stance towards health in all its aspects, and encompasses the many ways we can actively work towards a happier and more fulfilling life.

Wellbeing may best be defined in terms of elements that support it so we can actively strengthen those aspects in our lives. For many people, connecting to a sense of meaning, purpose or faith in life, is central to a sense of wellbeing. Internal conflict is lessened when we develop personal values from our sense of meaning, and let those values guide our choices and actions.

Contemplative practices such as meditation, or experiences of ‘flow’ (when we are absorbed in creative or intellectual pursuits), can also assist a feeling of contentment in heart and mind through inspiration, greater ‘aliveness’ and the development of mindful self-awareness.

Mindful self-awareness is important to wellbeing because it allows us emotional freedom. Mindfulness empowers us to make choices in regard to unhelpful habits of mood and thinking, rather than feeling trapped in our suffering and anxieties.

For most people, social connections form part of a sense of meaning and self-worth, so that satisfying, trusting relationships are also important facets of wellbeing. It is supportive to feel connected to a sense of something larger than just oneself in the world and being part of a community can offer such support.

Not least, care of the physical body is a vital component of whole person wellbeing.

The Centre for WellbeingThe Centre for Wellbeing at St Michael’s is a space dedicated to wellbeing in the heart of Melbourne offering free and low-cost classes, events, seminars and interest groups. Our aim is to create opportunities to enhance the human spirit, contribute to a healthier world by inspiring hearts and minds to grow and to promote happiness and participation across the lifespan.

ContactSt Michael’s Centre, 120 Collins StreetMelbourne, VIC, 3000Phone: (03) 9654 5120Website: centreforwellbeing.org.auTwitter: @centrewellbeingFacebook: TheCentreForWellbeingAtStMichaelsVimeo: vimeo.com/centreforwellbeing

Russell S

treet

Collins Street

St Michael’s Centre

120 Collins Street

St Michael’s Church

1. Hall2. Waratah Room3. Gumnut Crèche4. The Centre for Wellbeing Studio5. Kurrajong Room6. Melaleuca - office7. Library8. Bookshop9. Administration & Mingary Counselling10. Grevillea Room11. Jacaranda Room12. Acacia Boardroom13. Camellia Room14. Magnolia Room

Message from theCentre for Wellbeing Director,

Dr Debra Cambpell-Tunks Welcome to the Centre for Wellbeing, an initiative of St Michael’s.

I would like to thank the great team of multi-talented staff and volunteers at St Michael’s for contributing their great skills and enthusiasm to bring The Centre for Wellbeing to the people of Melbourne.

The Centre for Wellbeing aims to provide numerous opportunities to engage in enjoyment and learning for people of any age or background, by offering various paths to greater wellbeing. With a strong focus on community service all of the quality programs in this booklet are offered low-cost or free of charge.

I hope that you will find something of interest at The Centre for Wellbeing to enhance your journey.Enjoy!

Message from theExecutive Minister, Dr Francis Macnab

St Michael’s has many unique features. All of them together make St Michael’s an extraordinary place.

Each of the programs in this booklet carries an invitation to everyone to find something that will enhance their life, bring them into contact with an enthusiastic group of people and help them to become part of a wider experience of wellbeing.

Wellbeing is a very personal quest, but it is greatly enriched when it occurs in the context of a flourishing resilient community.

I encourage everyone to help sustain such a community at St Michael’s.

Contents

EventsPage 1 Fight Free FebruaryPage 2 Girls Night Out - Nelly Thomas Page 3 Therapy Dogs - Improving Quality of LifePage 4 The Desire MapPage 5 Relationships: The BIG QuestionsPage 6 Fall Seven Times Stand Up EightPage 7 SAGE: Successful Ageing with Growth & EnhancementPage 8 Avoiding, Approaching & AttachingPage 9 Mind Over MattersPage 10 Technology for over 55’sPage 11 Getting PublishedPage 12 Brain Building Basics

Natural TherapiesPage 13 Tai Chi Page 14 Reflexology

Groups and ClassesPage 16 New Horizons Bushwalking GroupPage 16 All Weather Walkers Group Page 17 Last Tuesday Book GroupPage 17 Philosophy for BeginnersPage 18 French Conversation Page 18 English Conversation—ECOS Page 19 Conversations with Liz Page 19 Bayside Book Group Page 20 Poetry Group

Online Resources Page 21 Mindfulness e-course

The Centre for Wellbeing and Mingary Counselling Service are proud 2012 Melbourne Awards Finalists.

Events

An annual campaign to encourage us all to think before we fight. The brain-child of Jane Libbis of Bayside Collaborative Law. As a family lawyer, Jane saw too much heartache and pain occurring between family members and a great need in people for help with communication skills and managing emotions in times of stress.

The aim of Fight Free February is to start a movement of individuals committed to finding ways to resolve what could turn into a fight: with partners, kids, colleagues, or…anyone. We do this by suggesting people make a pledge to have a month free of fighting and by offering practical tips about respectful ways to resolve conflicts at work and at home.

The Centre for Wellbeing is proud to be part of Fight Free February with a free information evening on maintaining healthy relationships and developing real strategies to deal with relationship challenges at home and at work. Includes a Q&A with an expert panel.

DATE Thursday 20 February TIME 6pm ROOM HallTICKETS Free Event BOOKINGS centreforwellbeing.org.au or call 9654 5120

FIGHT FREE FEBRUARY

SEMINAR

1

Comedian Nelly Thomas presents an informative and funny celebration of women and positive mental health.

Described as one of Australia’s most natural and intelligent comedians Nelly Thomas was listed as one of Australia’s “most innovative thinkers” in The Age newspaper’s The Zone and was featured on the ABC’s Big Ideas: The Smart-est Stuff on TV, Radio and Online.

Join Nelly for this hilarious one-woman show about women’s health, including an open Q&A session with Nelly and health professionals.

Her humour was on point, intelligent and she had a tough (and skeptical) crowd in stitches of laughter. Thank you Nelly!”- Caroline Gwynn, Criminal Bar Association

GIRLS NIGHT OUT NELLY THOMAS

COMEDY NIGHT

DATE Thursday 6 MarchTIME 6pm ROOM HallTICKETS $25 full, $20 concessionBOOKINGS centreforwellbeing.org.au or call 9654 5120

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Dogs and people have always worked together and we continue to find new ways for humans and dogs to co-create richer, healthier and happier lives.

The Centre for Wellbeing is proud to present a seminar on the increasing and vital role of service and therapy dogs. Let’s support understanding about the increasing need for therapy dog programs in Australia!

In this seminar we will discuss the many roles that dogs play, from assisting children with Autism to helping people suffering with Alzheimer’s.

The evening will include demonstrations of some of the techniques and philosophy of dog assisted therapeutic programs.

DATE Thursday 27 MarchTIME 6pm ROOM HallTICKETS Free Event BOOKINGS centreforwellbeing.org.au or call 9654 5120

THERAPY DOGSIMPROVING QUALITY OF LIFE

SEMINAR

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THE DESIRE MAP

DATES Friday 9 May Friday 18 July Friday 10 October TIME 6pm ROOM Wellbeing StudioTICKETS $10 BOOKINGS centreforwellbeing.org.au or call 9654 5120

WORKSHOP

Explore your ‘core desired feelings’ and how to harness ‘wise emotion’ in guiding you towards goals that are deeply authentic and rewarding to you.

Each session stands alone yet covers new material so you can attend one session or multiple sessions. Based on The Desire Map by Danielle LaPorte, 2013.

This workshop is part of the Flourish Wellbeing Workshop series and is interactive and informal; allowing for group discussion as well as valuable insights and tips from experts in psychological health and wellbeing.

Presented by Dr Debra Campbell-Tunks, a Psychologist and speaker specialising in relationships and in mindfulness. She has worked as a couple relationship therapist and a teacher of yoga and meditation.

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WORKSHOP Relationships have changed more in the last 40 years than in the previous 400 years, leaving many of us confused about love, sexuality and intimacy. Here is your chance to ask the tricky questions and get some solid answers. Join Dr Campbell-Tunks as she tackles the big questions about relationships.

Some of the questions that will be discussed are: How do couples keep their love vibrant?

Just how important is sex in a happy relationship?

How do partners stay connected in challenging times?

Can couples really recover from infidelities?

What are the major predictors of divorce and how can you avoid them or heal them now?

What does the latest research say are the relationship factors that lead to long-term relationship satisfaction?

DATE Thursday 22 MayTIME 6pm ROOM HallTICKETS Free Event BOOKINGS centreforwellbeing.org.au or call 9654 5120

RELATIONSHIPS: THE BIG QUESTIONS

SEMINAR

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FALL SEVEN TIMES.STAND UP EIGHT.

DATES Friday 13 June TIME 6pm ROOM Wellbeing StudioTICKETS $10 BOOKINGS centreforwellbeing.org.au or call 9654 5120

WORKSHOP

Part of the Flourish Wellbeing Workshop series this workshop focuses on how to keep going when you think you can’t.

An interactive and informal workshop; allowing for group discussion as well as valuable insights and tips from experts in psychological health and wellbeing.

Presented by Dr Lynette Kramer, Director of Mingary Counselling Service, a secular mental health initiative of Dr Francis Macnab. She has been offering regular workshops in positive mental health and wellbeing for over a decade.

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WORKSHOP

SAGE events offer psychological insights and information about healthy ageing in a friendly interactive forum. Dr Francis Macnab created SAGE to help people build strategies to cope with the big stresses in the years post-55, reshape their meaning of life, deal with the fears that flit through these years, live well and learn about the books to read and the music to listen to that will inspire whole person wellbeing.

Each month a SAGE seminar is held, focusing on a different topic, such as finding life purpose, what happens when we lose self-worth, coping with the transitions of retirement and how to develop coping strengths in later years.

“The SAGE seminars attract so many older people and I’m not surprised considering the important topics they discuss, all of which help older people to age well.” - Noeline Brown

DATES Thursday 26 JuneFriday 25 July Friday 29 AugustThursday 25 SeptemberFriday 31 October Friday 28 NovemberFriday 26 DecemberTIME 11amROOM HallTICKETS $20 (includs tea, coffee and sandwiches)BOOKINGS centreforwellbeing.org.au or call 9654 5120

SEMINAR

S.A.G.E SUCCESSFUL AGEING WITH GROWTH & ENHANCEMENT

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AVOIDING, APPROACHING & ATTACHING

DATES Friday 8 AugustTIME 6pm ROOM Wellbeing StudioTICKETS $10 BOOKINGS centreforwellbeing.org.au or call 9654 5120

WORKSHOP

Part of the Flourish Wellbeing Workshop series this workshop explores three ways our brains work to help us meet our needs.

An interactive and informal workshop; allowing for group discussion as well as valuable insights and tips from experts in psychological health and wellbeing.

Presented by Dr Lynette Kramer, Director of Mingary Counselling Service, a secular mental health initiative of Dr Francis Macnab. She has been offering regular workshops in positive mental health and wellbeing for over a decade.

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WORKSHOP

In conjunction with Mingary Counselling Service, the Centre for Wellbeing is proud to present a stress-reduction strategies seminar with mindfulness and meditation as its core teachings. Presented by Dr Debra Campbell-Tunks and Sian Ellett.

Dr Debra Campbell-Tunks is a Senior Psychologists and practitioner of Yoga and Meditation over 20 years. Debra offers a rare, in-depth integration of modern psychological stress management techniques and traditional yogic wisdom. Sian Ellett is a New Zealand born, Melbourne dwelling writer, orator and meditation practitioner with a Masters in Creative Writing, Publishing and Editing from the University of Melbourne.

This highly practical seminar: come as you are, ready to put learning into immediate practice and feel better for it.

DATE Thursday 14 AugustTIME 6pm ROOM HallTICKETS $15BOOKINGS centreforwellbeing.org.au or call 9654 5120

MIND OVER MATTERS

SEMINAR

9

If you are looking for a senior-friendly class to learn how to get the most out of your digital devices then look no further.

Whether you want to be able to communicate with your kids and grandkids using social media, know how to use the latest apps on an iPad, create a family tree, browse the great museums and galleries of the world online or just set up an email account, facilitator Roger Hersey can show you how.

This workshop has everything you need to understand and make the most of your computer, smartphone or mobile device. Roger can answer the questions you may have and provide you with the latest hints and tips to update your computer skills.

DATE Thursday 18 SeptemberTIME 6pm ROOM HallTICKETS Free Event BOOKINGS centreforwellbeing.org.au or call 9654 5120

TECHNOLOGY FOR OVER 55’S

WORKSHOP

10

This seminar is ideal for all those budding authors out there!

Featuring Wordsmith Euan Mitchell this one-night-only event will offer practical advice to help get your book published, as well as how to hone your writing skills.

Euan is an established author of many fiction and non-fiction titles, and for the past two decades has put words together for a living. At times he has also been known to help launch other writers’ works into orbit and he believes self-publishing is now easier than ever before.

Come along and learn everything you need to know about self-publishing from an author who has over a decade of experience.

DATE Thursday 16 OctoberTIME 6pm ROOM HallTICKETS Free EventBOOKINGS centreforwellbeing.org.au or call 9654 5120

GETTING PUBLISHED

SEMINAR

11

BRAIN BUILDING BASICS

DATES Friday 14 NovemberTIME 6pm ROOM Wellbeing StudioTICKETS $10 BOOKINGS centreforwellbeing.org.au or call 9654 5120

WORKSHOP

Part of the Flourish Wellbeing Workshop series this workshop explores the art of hardwiring positive experiences into your brain.

An interactive and informal workshop; allowing for group discussion as well as valuable insights and tips from experts in psychological health and wellbeing.

Presented by Dr Lynette Kramer, Director of Mingary Counselling Service, a secular mental health initiative of Dr Francis Macnab. She has been offering regular workshops in positive mental health and wellbeing for over a decade.

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WORKSHOP

TAI CHI

DATES By AppointmentTIME By AppointmentROOM Wellbeing StudioTICKETS Call for pricesBOOKINGS 9527 73770407 941 101 info@yulong.com.au www.yulong.com.au

NATURAL THERAPIES

Tai Chi (Taijiquan in Chinese) is a Chinese Martial Art that has been practiced in China since the 16th Century.

It is a tranquil and graceful way of keeping fit, improving your health, and helping to manage the stresses and strains of modern living.

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REFLEXOLOGY

DATES By AppointmentTIME 10am - 4pmROOM Wellbeing StudioTICKETS $30BOOKINGS 9654 5120

NATURAL THERAPIES

Reflexology is a complementary therapy involving gentle pressure and massage to acupressure points on the hands, feet and the face. It has a balancing, soothing effect on the body.

Reflexology is suitable for all ages and is a relaxing and nurturing experience whether you have a health condition or are simply in need of a “tune up”.

Low cost reflexology clinics take place regularly at The Centre for Wellbeing with Glenda Moon, a qualified reflexology practitioner for 12 years.

Glenda is still amazed at the remarkable results achieved with this wonderful therapy. Every day she sees improvements in her clients, both physically and emotionally.

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NATURAL THERAPIES Community Classes &Interest Groups

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The bushwalking group will meet five times in the course of 2014 to walk in inspiring natural environments about one hour’s drive from the Melbourne CBD. Walks are typically 8-11 km.

Organised by Johanna Hersey and Russell Watson the length of walks are usually 4 to 5 hours long. Meet at 12noon in St Michael’s Walk, outside the front door of the St Michael’s Centre.

DATE Visit Website for dates, times and what to bringTICKETS Free BOOKINGS no bookings requiredcall 9654 5120 for info

NEW HORIZONSBUSH WALKING GROUP

INTEREST GROUP

A friendly walking Group meets on the second Saturday of each month, walking 3-4 km or more, at varied locations around Melbourne. The pace is steady but gentle, and walks are only postponed in the event of extreme weather forecasts.

Twice yearly there is also a full-day excursion organised for walkers.

DATE Visit Website for dates and timesTICKETS Free BOOKINGS no bookings requiredcall 9654 5120 for info

ALL WEATHER WALKERS GROUP

INTEREST GROUP

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INTEREST GROUP

INTEREST GROUP

A free, lively, interactive discussion group, open to everyone. The work of Paul Tillich is a major focus.

Paul Johannes Tillich was a German-American Philosopher and widely regarded as one of the most influential theologians of the 20th Century. Best known for his works The Courage to Be and Dynamics of Faith, which introduced issues of theology and modern culture to a general readership.

DATE Last Sunday of the Month 12pmROOM Camellia RoomBOOKINGS no bookings requiredcall 9654 5120 for info

PHILOSOPHY FOR BEGINNERS

INTEREST GROUP

The “Last Tuesday” open book discussion group meets 7pm - 8.30pm on the last Tuesday of most months. Please check the website for details of books to be discussed.

Tea and coffee are provided. There is no charge but you will need to obtain your own copy of the book to read before the discussion group takes place.

DATE Lat Tuesday of the Month7pmROOM St Michael’s LibraryBOOKINGS no bookings requiredcall 9654 5120 for info

“LAST TUESDAY” BOOK GROUP

INTEREST GROUP

17

Join native French speaker, Johanna Hersey, for a fun and informal French conversation class where all are welcome to practice their French and receive some pointers in basic French conversation skills.

Beginners and fluent speakers alike will find someone to chat to in French and help and guidance on hand.

DATE 2nd Sunday of the Month12pmROOM Waratah RoomBOOKINGS no bookings requiredcall 9654 5120 for info

EASY FRENCH CONVERSATION

COMMUNITY CLASS

This interest group is an opportunity for international students and migrants who want to enjoy English conversation and meeting Australians in a friendly environment.

It is relaxed, friendly conversation while sharing tea, coffee and snacks.

DATE Last Sunday of the Month11.45amROOM Jacaranda RoomBOOKINGS no bookings requiredcall 9654 5120 for info

ENGLISH CONVERSATION FOR OVERSEAS STUDENTS AND MIGRANTS

INTEREST GROUP

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COMMUNITY CLASS

This interest group is an opportunity for international students and migrants who want to enjoy English conversation and meeting Australians in a friendly environment.

It is relaxed, friendly conversation while sharing tea, coffee and snacks.

DATE Last Sunday of the Month11.45amROOM Jacaranda RoomBOOKINGS no bookings requiredcall 9654 5120 for info

ENGLISH CONVERSATION FOR OVERSEAS STUDENTS AND MIGRANTS

INTEREST GROUP

Each session Liz introduces a topic to open the conversation, or brings a speaker to share their story. It could take you on a journey anywhere from there – exploring meaning, listening to each other’s stories, discussing current events, spirituality and more.

Listen to people’s stories, be heard by others, connect and find new friends. This is an informal group to help you to get to know others in a relaxed and gentle way over a simple morning tea.

DATE 3rd Sunday of the Month12pmROOM Wellbeing StudioBOOKINGS no bookings requiredcall 9654 5120 for info

CONVERSATIONS WITH LIZ LISTENING WITH THE HEART AND THE HEAD

INTEREST GROUP

The Bayside Open Book Discussion Group invites members in Cheltenham, Beaumaris and surrounding areas.

Each month there is a new book. Tea, coffee and cake will be served. Please check the website for details regarding books and venue.

DATE Last Sunday of the Month 1pmROOM Off SiteMORE INFORMATIONLyndell: 0408 577 357 Janette: 0409 139 404

BAYSIDE BOOK GROUP

INTEREST GROUP

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A group that meets to read poetry, share work and be inspired about all things poetry.

This group is facilitated by Dr Peter Kingsbury and is free of charge.

DATE 3rd Sunday of the Month12pmROOM Camellia RoomBOOKINGS no bookings requiredcall 9654 5120 for info

POETRY GROUP

INTEREST GROUP

A fantastic e-book written by Dr Debra Campbell-Tunks that will help you begin a mindfulness practice.

A great introduction to mindfulness this e-book is perfect for those who are thinking about joining our mindfulness e-course or who just want to try mindfulness for the first time.

DATES Sign up to our e-news and recive a free copyWEBSITEcentreforwellbeing.org.au

MINDFULNESSE-BOOK

FREE RESOURSE

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A group that meets to read poetry, share work and be inspired about all things poetry.

This group is facilitated by Dr Peter Kingsbury and is free of charge.

DATE 3rd Sunday of the Month12pmROOM Camellia RoomBOOKINGS no bookings requiredcall 9654 5120 for info

POETRY GROUP

INTEREST GROUP

MINDFULNESSE-COURSE

DATES Course will be launched in August 2014COST TBAMore Informationcentreforwellbeing.org.au

ONLINE COURSE

7 days to transforming anxiety and stress with mindfulness.

Over 7 days you will receive a series of 45 minute lessons on how to use meditation and mindfulness to reduce anxiety and stress in your everyday life.

Each day a new video will be sent to your email inbox that will teach you the techniques of how to connect with the contents of your mind and build your inner wellbeing.

If you are interested in taking this e-course visit our website and follow the links to join the wait list. More information about the course will be announced during the Mind Over Matters seminar in August.

A fantastic e-book written by Dr Debra Campbell-Tunks that will help you begin a mindfulness practice.

A great introduction to mindfulness this e-book is perfect for those who are thinking about joining our mindfulness e-course or who just want to try mindfulness for the first time.

DATES Sign up to our e-news and recive a free copyWEBSITEcentreforwellbeing.org.au

MINDFULNESSE-BOOK

FREE RESOURSE

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Mingary Counselling Service

Confidential, low-cost counsellingIf you are seeking relief from painful or stressful experiences, assistance with major life changes or help reducing anxiety, fear and uncertainty, call Mingary Counselling services to make an appointment today.

Or visit The Quiet Place (pictured above): a peaceful, nondenominational sanctuary for people of all religions and cultures. Open 8am to 5pm weekdays and 8am to 1pm Sundays; enter from the Russell Street side of St Michael’s.

St Michael’s Centre, 120 Collins Street, Melbournewww.mingarycounselling.com.au | (03) 9654 5120