“Mindfulness Every Day, A Fuller Life Always” – Where Connection Begins and Inner Peace Grows

On February 3, 2026, the Institute of Psychology at Hoa Sen University, in partnership with the Self-Compassion Community, hosted the workshop “Mindfulness Every Day, A Fuller Life Always”, welcoming lecturers, students, therapists, and mental health enthusiasts into a shared space of reflection and connection.

In a serene and supportive atmosphere, participants were guided to slow down, return to the present moment, and listen more deeply to their inner world, rediscovering the quiet strength that mindfulness could bring to everyday living.

Seasoned Practitioners in Mindfulness and Mental Well-being

Recently, the workshop “Mindfulness Every Day, A Fuller Life Always” at Hoa Sen University (HSU) welcomed two distinguished speakers whose lifelong dedication to mindfulness and mental well-being has inspired communities around the world:

Dr. Mitchell Ratner is a respected mindfulness leader and a disciple who received Dharma transmission from Thich Nhat Hanh in 2001. He is the co-founder of the Still Water Mindfulness Practice Center in the United States. He has dedicated decades to teaching, researching, and writing on mindfulness, mindful communication, and mental health, and has led practice programs that have reached participants around the world.

Ms. Nguyen Hoang Chieu Anh, MA, Co-founder and program developer of the Self-Compassion Community in Viet Nam. She has instructed courses on self-compassion, mindful parenting, and effective self-leadership. Her insights helped participants approach mindfulness in a way that was relatable, practical, and easy to apply in their daily lives.

Individual reasons and shared empathy

At the start of the program, Dr. Mitchell Ratner engaged the audience with a straightforward yet thought-provoking question:

“What brings you to today’s workshop?”

Participants took turns sharing their reasons for attending: some longed for deeper self-understanding, others were curious about what mindfulness truly entails, and some sought practical ways to ease anxiety and stress in their daily lives. Each response revealed a unique story, yet when heard with full presence, it became clear that these personal experiences often reflect common struggles shared by many in today’s society.

This awareness created a heartfelt, empathetic environment, bringing participants closer together despite having just met.

Mindfulness: Understanding and Applying It in Daily Life

Drawing on relatable stories and real-life experiences, Dr. Mitchell Ratner and Ms. Nguyen Hoang Chieu Anh helped participants deepen their understanding of mindfulness, navigate challenging emotions, and discover practical methods for bringing mindfulness into everyday life.

Particularly, Dr. Mitchell Ratner recounted a story that resonated with many: a person with a successful career, a loving family, and steady achievements, yet still feeling empty inside. Through turning inward and practicing mindfulness, he gradually uncovered true happiness, a deeper connection in relationships, and tools to support his mental well-being. Through his story, participants came to realize a simple truth: the pursuit of self-understanding is a natural need for everyone.

Experiencing Mindfulness in a Calm Space

Beyond reflection and discussion, participants practiced essential mindfulness techniques, including meditation, mindful walking, and body and emotion awareness. Furthermore, under expert guidance, every exercise was easy to follow, helping attendees quickly experience calm, focus, and balance.

The workshop space offered participants the chance to listen to one another, share personal reflections, and realize that many emotions that might seem uniquely personal are actually shared human experiences. This sense of empathy fostered a warm and meaningful connection.

Fostering Mental Health Care in the Community

Through this workshop, the Institute of Psychology at HSU gained valuable opportunities to connect with experts, lecturers, and practitioners, fostering greater awareness of mental health. In the near future, the Institute of Psychology plans to expand its mindfulness and brain science initiatives, creating more opportunities for learners and the community to access practical, scientifically grounded approaches to mental health.

Through these sessions, participants also cultivate mindfulness skills that can enhance their learning, professional life, and daily routines.

Some moments at the workshop: