institute for Mindfulness studies
specializing in the practice of law
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the Institute for Mindfulness Studies? The mission of the Institute for Mindfulness Studies (IMS) is to offer practical and accessible methods of working with mindfulness practices to achieve greater (internal) balance and well-being. As it applies to the law, please click here and read our Mission Statement.
What is mindfulness? There are many different approaches for describing mindfulness. We refer to mindfulness as being aware of the moment without judgment, with an open heart, and a clear mind. Many definitions and approaches converge on the same key ingredients -- present moment, grounded, non-judgmental, curious, non-resisting awareness. Daniel Siegel, a neuroscientist interested in the relationship between the brain and mindfulness refers to mindfulness as “waking up from a life on automatic, and being sensitive to novelty in our everyday experience (Siegel, 2007). Jon Kabat-Zinn, an important figure in both the experimental and experiential exploration of mindfulness practices, describes it as “. . . tuning into the basic experience of living. . . . allowing [oneself] to be in the moment with things exactly as they are, without trying to change anything.” (Kabat-Zinn, 1990). Put simply, it is being comfortable with what arises in one’s life and the ability to offer others a genuine, non-reactive presence to allow them the space to be themselves.
What Jurisight? Jurisight is the lawyer-oriented mindfulness program developed by the Institute for Mindfulness Studies. It integrates timeless mindfulness-practices with cutting edge advances in neuroscience. Its appeal to lawyers is found in the novel use of legal imagery and concepts. Lawyers who complete the various Jurisight programs, or an IMS workshop, will be exposed in terms like “pain and suffering,” “due diligence,” “res ipsa loquitor,” “justice,” “attractive nuisance,” and “stare decisis” in ways that will open wide the conceptual doors of mindfulness practice. These terms and related imagery are then used to deepen one’s understanding through mindfulness-based techniques and exercises. The three levels of Jurisight include: (1) stress reduction, (2) alignment of mind and body to embrace natural flow of life and reality, and (3) mindful awareness and neural integration. The benefits that flow are a less cluttered mind, better focus and clarity of purpose, more optimal performance, greater ease moment to moment, and greater balance and a deeper sense of well-being.
What is a contemplative practice? A contemplative practice is any of a variety of approaches to living life that involve a quieting of the mind amid the chaos and distractions of everyday life. It is a practice that helps develop insight into our true nature so that an attitude of unconditional friendliness towards our self and others can flourish.
How long has the Institute for Mindfulness Studies been operating? The Institute was founded in 2004 and initially focused on mindfulness and parenting. The groundwork for the development of mindfulness teachings and services for practitioners in law and in medicine began in 2005. In 2007, the entity established for for the development of mindful parenting instruction expanded to include the legal profession. It was renamed the Institute for Mindfulness Studies.
How quickly will I see results? Mindfulness is not about quick fixes. Change is deliberate and generally proceeds in stages as the skill of achieving states of greater awareness and insight matures. At the same time, change is constantly happening. Appreciable differences, especially as it relates to specific objectives is person-specific and largely dependent on commitment to practicing, and readiness to commit. The time involved in the practice can vary widely, depending upon a person’s personality and the availability of time. Many techniques takes place in the middle of one’s day, while immersed in work or family.
Is mindfulness a religion? No. While mindfulness and other contemplative practices also appear in many religions and spiritual traditions, the instruction and services offered by the IMS do not embrace or rely on any religious or spiritual dogma or institution.
Are the mindfulness services like counseling or therapy? Mindfulness practices are oriented about developing a deeper understanding of one’s inner-workings (attitudes, behavior, and thoughts and feelings). There are several therapeutic techniques that draw on mindfulness practices, and indeed, mindfulness practices are geared toward enhancing one’s sense of well-being. But the services offered are not based on counseling, clinical, or psychiatric disciplines. The programs are self-contained and limited in duration.
Is there a guarantee? The only guarantee is that the more you put into developing a mindfulness practice, the more you will get out of it. As for the fee, there is a full refund for people who sign up for individualized instruction and who, within one week of the services, are not satisfied.
We hope that this FAQ has been helpful. If you have a question that was not answered, please contact us to learn more about mindfulness and how we might work together to help bring greater clarity and purpose to your practice and life.
The IMS offers instruction and consultation in mindfulness- based practices. Our services, designed to enhance performance and well-being, are tailored for schools, firms, small and large groups, and individuals.
Scott Rogers, M.S., J.D.
Founder and Director
Contact
Institute for Mindfulness Studies
800 West Avenue, Suite C-1
Miami Beach, Florida 33139
tel: 786-239-9318
fax: 305-538-4676
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The workshop will take place Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. The course is approved for 8.5 General CLE credits, which includes one Ethics credit. To read testimonials from recent participants, click here.
Order The 8 CD Set and 63 Page Course Book -- Approved for 10 CLE Credits. Click here to learn More.
testimonials
“Scott Rogers has the answer to finding harmony in the practice of law. Introducing concepts of mindfulness in my legal career was my answer to feeling fulfilled, balanced and rewarded. Scott has helped me integrate different techniques into my workday - a benefit that has been felt in my personal life as well.”
-- Lori Tashman, Esq.
Government Attorney
Government Attorney
“Scott’s original methods of waking us up to the present moment are easy to understand and a delight to experience. The simplicity and power of his techniques make them all the more appealing to busy lawyers.”
-- Melvin Rubin, Esq.
Family Law Attorney & Mediator
Family Law Attorney & Mediator
“As an attorney, I found myself always thinking, analyzing, and planning ahead. This constant activity left me feeling exhausted and sapped me of any ‘joie de vivre.’ Since meeting Scott and incorporating his mindfulness techniques into my everyday life, I feel less anxious and, in short -- Happier.” I am very grateful to Scott and his techniques. I encourage anyone who feels overwhelmed and over-stimulated to meet with Scott. It will change your life.”
-- Ana-Maria Deschapelle, Esq.
Trial Attorney
Trial Attorney
“Scott has taught me techniques that I can seamlessly incorporate into my day. They're especially useful when the unexpected arises! In only a few weeks, I've noticed that I'm a more effective attorney and a more attentive person in general.”
-- Josh Shore, Esq.
Law Clerk
Law Clerk
“Scott, I wanted to thank you for the mindfulness techniques that you have shared with me over the last few months. They have been a really big help in my very hectic life . . . Click here to read the full testimonial.”
-- Laura E., Esq. Trial Attorney
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