Reviews

Comments/feedback from participants

Live Online Mindfulness Practice

 I just returned from a mindful walk in the park without meaning to do so. It was a perfect, beautiful day and I became a part of it, not an observer but part of it. I sat on a bench and automatically adjusted my body into 90 degree angles making me feel young and alert. My feet felt grounded anchoring my awareness. I listened to many fountains , to kids happy to be back at the small water park. I walked with beauty before, behind, above and below me. I practiced the Breath of Joy mindful movement filling me with vitality. All this was because Margaret McGann rescued me at the beginning of this pandemic with her Free Live Online Mindfulness Practice. Two times a week I look forward to her class to learn oh so much about mindfully existing and observing. It is like magic. I’ve learned movements, poetry, various meditations, about anchors, and 3 rings of the singing bowl. Unknowingly, this hour every week has crept into my life to help me feel grounded and tranquil. I write this with gratitude for the time Margaret has shared with us to teach us how to focus on the present moment while acknowledging and accepting ourselves. The practice is phenomenal. Thank you, Margaret. Mary H

As a participant in Margaret’s zoom sessions during the pandemic and as a fellow mindfulness teacher, I have great esteem for Margaret. Her conscientious preparation for classes and kindness make her an exceptional teacher. Margaret has a rich background as a therapist, nurse, and yoga teacher all of which enrich her ability to share mindfulness practice and to facilitate group experience. She also has special training in teaching mindfulness for those with a history of trauma, which includes just about everyone now during this time of pandemic and political upheaval! Carmelina D

The Live Online Mindfulness Practice offered by Margaret McGann of Mindfulness Midwest has been a peaceful oasis during the stress and uncertainty of the ongoing pandemic. After completing her MBSR class in person, this virtual experience that Margaret and her team created became a viable tool to connect, relax, and stay centered in a time of complete uncertainty. Margaret’s “Mountain Meditations” transport you into a focused balance to carry on whatever your stressors may be. Thank you Mindfulness Midwest!  Sari B

Each thirty minute mid-day class offered on Wednesday and Friday is different as Margaret varies activities with quiet or guided meditations, light yoga and stretching, and breath of joy.  I believe she’s helped me to continue to have successful outcomes with my treatments and staying alive with Stage 4 Ovarian Cancer.  I’ve learned techniques that I use everyday. The classes this year have helped me cope with this frightening pandemic, along with the return of my cancer.  I have so much gratitude for Margaret and her amazing classes. Barb G

Mindfulness Midwest has been a balm for the soul during these uncertain times. Mary M

MBSR Course

I received 3 gifts from this program. First and foremost as a caregiver, I witness the physical and mental benefits my wife Barbara with Stage 4 Ovarian Cancer receives.  Secondly, I myself feel the physical and stress benefits that help me keep calm during this Cancer journey by using the techniques that Margaret teaches. Third the hope and friendship it inspires in all who attend. It enriches ones perspective on how to cope with this disease as a patient and caregiver.

Margaret exhibits a genuine concern for all that makes you feel like family . Her conduct is professional and welcoming. James G

I found the MBSR program that I attended to genuinely make an impact on my daily life.  I developed, as well as recognized, skills that exercise daily mindfulness which has contributed to my personal well being. I highly recommend the program.  The program increased my sense of well being and my ability to control stress triggers.  The practices were very useful. I continue to use many weekly.

The program influenced my life by providing me with skills to handle stress more effectively than pretty much anything else I have tried.

The presenter was awesome (and funny). I’m glad I did it. Mary R

The MBSR classes taught me how to reduce my stress and to use my breathing as a way of relaxing. I found  the classes fun and easy to follow.  I met life long friends and recommend it. Ann Q

I originally attended the MBSR Program to help with a very challenging time in my life, cancer. The MBSR Program has taught me the skills I need to navigate through life.  I’ve learned how to practice meditation, mindful eating and walking and body scanning.  The MBSR Program has helped with anxiety and stress in both my personal and professional life.  My sleep has also improved because of the MBSR Program. 

All of these skills we have learned from Margaret McGann.  She has been an excellent facilitator. Margaret provides us with a friendly and supportive environment to learn and practice MBSR.  We benefit from Margaret’s extensive knowledge, continuing education and experience.  She has taught us so much regarding MBSR for which I am thankful.  Sharon M

I am happy to take this opportunity to let people know about the MBSR program I attended nearly four years ago at Little Company of Mary Hospital. It has been instrumental in my recovery from the acute generalized anxiety I had begun experiencing about a month before I started attending MBSR in support of a good friend with cancer. Learning how to take time to breathe deeply, meditate, peacefully unite mind and body through gentle yoga, become aware of what is going on inside my mind and in my heart, and increase my sense of gratitude are invaluable gifts for a better life. We could ask for no better guide than Margaret McGann—patient, kind, always learning, gently challenging. Laura D

What I got out of our eight week class was how to manage stress in my daily life.  I loved learning about coping with stress responding vs reacting.  I enjoyed the yoga as well as the mindfulness of breathing.  I feel very blessed to have been given the opportunity to take this class.

Margaret is an excellent facilitator.  She kept us all on task.  Carol L

I found the MBSR program with Margaret very beneficial. I had long been interested in yoga and meditation, but had not incorporated either into my daily life until I took this course.  During the program, I was inspired to meditate often, and I continue to do so after the ending of the course. Now I feel calmer, even when facing stressful situations.  I am sleeping better, paying attention more, and am finding more pleasure in life’s little moments! 

Margaret is a remarkable, empathetic teacher who creates a positive learning environment.  Michelle U

MBSR Monthly Group: Meet and practice together upon completion of MBSR Program

A couple of months ago at the MBSR monthly group at OSF Little Company of Mary Hospital, I told Margaret and the other participants that being in the group has made me a better person. Sharing joys and struggles with others under Margaret’s insightful care and practicing good listening skills, self care, and kindness have helped me greatly. Thank you. Laura D

Meeting monthly with the group has helped me to reconnect with the practices that I learned in the MBSR program. I enjoy the time to share and connect with others who are interested in mindfulness.  Michelle U

I have found the MBSR group a safe haven. I love everything about it and hope this year to attend even more.  Having these relaxing sessions with you and the other members has meant a lot to me. I can be myself and get rid of stress at the same time.  Thank you Margaret for making us feel welcomed. Darlene I

Attending monthly MBSR meetings reinforces what we learned and has helped me stay on track so I can remain a survivor, cancer-free.  I always look forward to our monthly meetings with Margaret and my fellow survivors.   Thank you Margaret and OSF LCMH for allowing us to benefit from MBSR for cancer survivors.  Sharon M