Ryan M. Niemiec, Psy.D. is a leading figure in the education, research, and practice of character strengths that are found in all human beings. He is creator of Mindfulness-Based Strengths Practice (MBSP), an evidence-based program that integrates the science and practice of mindfulness and character strengths. It is the first, and one of the only mindfulness programs in the world to offer an alternative to the deficit-based approach, by targeting what’s best in people rather than targeting problems.
Mindfulness and Strengths Half-Day Retreat: October 20, 2023
Live Course
Expand and deepen your personal practice of mindful strengths use in a rejuvenating retreat.
$99.00 USD
- Live Experience Engaging and interactive online program, including small group breakout experiences
- Led by Mindfulness Expert Learn from Dr. Ryan Niemiec, the creator of Mindfulness-Based Strengths Practice and a global leader in mindfulness and character strengths
- 5 Hours of Activities ½ day retreat for progressive learning
- Session Materials A recording of the retreat is provided for personal use after the session
- No Prerequisites Available for anyone to join. A good Internet connection with audio/camera for this Zoom session and comfortable clothes are recommended.
- Language English offered (closed captioning available)
About this Virtual Retreat
In a busy world with many distractions, mindfulness helps us return back to the present moment. The Mindfulness and Strengths Retreat is a live, online experience created to help new and experienced meditators and strengths enthusiasts to build and/or advance their practice of mindfulness and character strengths.
As a live, virtual retreat, participants can practice mindfulness and character strengths in the environment where they are most likely to be “running on autopilot” or “lost in routines” — their home or workplace. This practice allows participants to bring the wisdom of mindfulness, mindful living, and character strengths right into their lives, with immediate application.
This VIA Retreat brings together people from around the globe, enhancing the opportunity for each participant to learn from people from a range of diverse perspectives and backgrounds.
What Will You Experience On this Virtual Retreat?
In this live, online program, you will be engaged with the benefits and practice of bringing mindfulness and character strengths into daily activities that you may be quick to take for granted or be mindless to. These include: walking, standing, sitting, eating, drinking, listening, speaking and playing.
Learn from the creator of Mindfulness-Based Strengths Practice, Dr. Ryan Niemiec, as he demonstrates life-changing tools to shift you from distracted living—where you are disengaged, disconnected, and on autopilot—to mindful living. You will leave the retreat feeling calm and energized, and empowered to apply mindfulness and character strengths immediately to your daily life and routine.
2024 Virtual Retreat Dates
Half-day online retreat will be held:
March 15, 2024, 8:00 AM EST – 1:00 PM EST (New York time)
Who Should Join this Virtual Retreat
With the distractions of social media, email, the Internet, and busy work and personal lives, it’s common to lose touch with the present moment. This mindfulness retreat will give you the opportunity to refresh and rejuvenate with your breath and your core strengths. Many participants report that their mindfulness and strengths practice becomes deeper and more powerful. This retreat can help with common feelings like:
Irritability
Worry
Stress
Reactivity or sensitivity to others
Course Details
- Live Experience Engaging and interactive online program, including small group breakout experiences
- Led by Mindfulness Expert Learn from Dr. Ryan Niemiec, the creator of Mindfulness-Based Strengths Practice and a global leader in mindfulness and character strengths
- 5 Hours of Activities ½ day retreat for progressive learning
- Session Materials A recording of the retreat is provided for personal use after the session
- No Prerequisites Available for anyone to join. A good Internet connection with audio/camera for this Zoom session and comfortable clothes are recommended.
- Language English offered (closed captioning available)
Course Faculty
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I really do a retreat online? Shouldn’t I be in a beautiful setting in the forest or along the ocean or lake?
Sure. Beautiful settings are a wonderful place to practice and cultivate mindfulness and strengths use. But, our setting should not dictate whether or not we are mindful. Your mindfulness can be expressed wherever you are. We spend most of our days in settings relating to home and work so why not practice mindfulness and strengths use in those settings? That will make your future application more abundant. Ryan Niemiec/VIA Institute have offered nearly 20 MBSP Retreats virtually over the years and past participants have reached a consensus—the retreats are insight-generating, user-friendly, and remarkably applicable and beneficial. Numerous stories of personal transformation have emerged from these online retreats.
- Can I purchase the retreat for multiple individuals in my organization?
Yes. Please contact VIA Customer Service at info@viacharacter.org for more information.
- What is the schedule for the Mindfulness and Strengths Half-Day Retreat?
While each retreat has slight variations, the general schedule emphasizes the following: opening/unique meditation, presentation, mindful intentions, strong mindfulness practice, mindful food preparation, mindful eating, mindful listening and speaking with strengths. There will also be a structured open period for participants to engage in “mindful strengths use” time on their own, where they can focus on their creativity, their gratitude, and their mindful use of other strengths (suggestions will be shared during the retreat).
- What should I bring to the Mindfulness and Strengths Half-Day Retreat?
Nothing is required to bring. A good Internet connection and good audio/camera is recommended. We’ll be doing gentle movements so comfortable clothes may be helpful. For the mindful eating element, you’ll be invited to mindfully prepare your food, snack, or drink so take that into consideration with the timing per your time zone and whether you’ll be at home, work, or elsewhere. But, most of all, bring an open, curious, and accepting mind.
- Will a recording be available?
Yes. This retreat is hosted on Zoom. The entire retreat will be recorded and shared so you can re-engage with key points or experience any portion of the day you might unexpectedly miss. Live participation during the retreat is highly encouraged.
- How can I learn more about mindfulness and character strengths?
The Mindfulness and Strengths in Daily Life Course is an 8-session, on-demand course that can help you learn how to authentically engage with your strengths in everyday experiences. Research-based tips show how to actively bring forth the best parts of yourself to become happier, more engaged with life and better prepared to handle stress and challenges. Plus this course includes a personalized report on how to activate the 5 mindfulness skills.
Mindfulness-Based Strengths Practice (MBSP) is a live, 8-week program offered several times throughout the year. Participants learn research-based skills to increase self-awareness, improve relationships and manage problems. Weekly sessions include group discussions, a variety of meditations and experiential activities, strengths practices, lecture/input, and homework exercises. Through the MBSP program, participants can grow in their understanding of who they are and how they bring their best qualities forward in their work, relationships, leisure, and daily life.
- I am currently enrolled in the MBSP Program. Do I need to register for this retreat separately?
No, if you are enrolled in the current MBSP Program, this retreat is already included in your program registration. We look forward to sharing the retreat with you.