When you enrol at ACMM you get your very on Meditation and Mindfulness Coach to support and mentor you along your journey!
This month we want to introduce you to ACMM Coach Leanne Russell. Leanne’s relationship with meditation started in 2001 and she now runs meditation groups, private sessions and a group at her local hospital cancer therapy centre.
Continue reading to hear about Leanne’s journey with meditation.
Hi Leanne! Tell us a little bit about yourself
I have lived in the Wollondilly shire since 1997, before that lived in Sydney for 4 years but grew up in the country town of Goulburn.
I have two grown children, Luke is 24 & Janaya is 20. Plus, I have my red dog Jacka, two cats – Bean & Willow and two grandpuppies Monash and Pippa…a full house at times!
So many things I enjoy on the weekends, reading, exploring, walks, bike rides, being in the garden, yoga, spending time with family & friends and I have rediscovered the skill of crocheting recently. Music and podcasts are often playing in the car or throughout the house.
When did you start meditating and why?
I started meditating in 2001, it was a way of connecting with a faith for me. I went with a friend to a local centre to attend a group meditation but then discovered so much more.
What does your current meditation practice look like
I meditate everyday and enjoy finding ways to incorporate meditation into my busy life that works well for me. I encourage others to find meditation moments in their day, and I do this for myself as well. Sometimes it is being outside with Jacka to throw the ball or taking him for a walk. Sometimes it is sitting with a cup of tea and listening to the birds outside.
What have been some of the benefits you have experienced from meditation?
I feel more present and mindful. I notice my humanness, my emotions and signals from my body, and I am curious. I am always curious, and I bring this curiosity to myself through meditation and mindfulness. And from this I notice I am more compassionate with myself and do what I can to ensure that I find ways to bring in nurturing & nourishing practices.
What was the biggest challenge you have faced when meditating and what did you do to overcome it or manage it?
Time! being busy and not having time! I bring kindness to myself with this. I remind myself that this is my practice and I do what I can with kindness, meditation moments and ‘everyday no matter what’ from Tara Brach is a great reminder.
Can you tell us who your favourite meditation teachers or mentors are?
I have a few! Tara Brach, she is so gentle and compassionate. Thich Nhat Hanh, the way he speaks to your heart by saying so little. Camille Maurine, I have just found her through Lisa and the book Meditation Secrets For Women – this book resonates for me. And Julie Bond-Rowe has been an inspiration for me too.
How have you used meditation and mindfulness in your own business?
I run meditation groups, private sessions, reiki sessions and a group at the local hospital cancer therapy centre. Supporting others to bring meditation into their life is amazing.
What do you love most about being a coach at ACMM?
I love the connections made with others! The people I have met from all over Australia and the world is incredible! I have learnt so much from them, and I am so grateful to share meditation with them and have fabulous conversations every coach call. Another beautiful experience is watching everyone blossom and evolve through the course, it is a privilege to be there as a support, through the sessions and electives.
What supportive words would you say to a new meditation teacher?
Those nerves mean you are passionate about what you do! Breathe with those nerves, ground yourself, those you guide won’t notice a ‘mistake’, they will just notice your authentic self and sense how much you care as you guide.
