POTSDAM -- The stress of the holidays presents an opportunity to give yourself a gift of time and peace through “Mindful Meditation,” a workshop with Joya Blondel and the Local Living Venture.

The workshop will be held Saturday, Dec. 9, from noon to 2 p.m. at the town hall.

Joya Blondel teaches mindfulness meditation in the tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh, known as "the gentle Buddhist monk from Vietnam," and today's best known Buddhist teacher after the Dalai Lama.

No experience is necessary, the session is designed specifically for beginners. Basic premises to be covered include mindful eating, breathing meditation, and walking. There will be lots of time for questions.

Reservations for this introductory session are not necessary, but appreciated, though registered participants will receive notice in the event of any changes. Weekly follow-up sessions with Ms. Blondel are also available on a drop-in basis.

Participants should dress in comfortable, loose fitting clothing and bring drinking water. The Potsdam Town Hall community room is located at 18 Elm St., rear entrance.

There is a suggested donation of $22 general public, $40 couple/family of two, $10 student donation for material costs, overhead expenses, and to benefit Local Living Venture (LLV) non-profit workshop creation. Reduced rate scholarships are available upon request.

To register, contact LocalLivingVenture@gmail.com or call (315) 347-4223 to reserve a spot. Please include your phone number(s) and the number in your party for an email containing all pertinent information.