Frequently Asked Questions:

When was the American Mindfulness Association (AMA) Founded?

The American Mindfulness Association was founded in 2021 as a 501(c)(6) nonprofit. As a non profit all of the member dues are put back into running the association. 

Why was the American Mindfulness Association Founded?

The American Mindfulness Association was founded to address the needs of mindfulness professionals across the multidisciplinary field of mindfulness. The association services the full ecosystem of mindfulness as an industry.  Chief Mindfulness Officers across businesses from corporate to government, mindfulness teachers and trainers, academic institutions teachers and students of mindfulness, and the various suppliers to the industry including but not limited to mindfulness technologists. You can learn more about member types here. 

Who Founded the American Mindfulness Association?

While there are many great visionaries that contribute to modern mindfulness this association was founded by Holly Duckworth & Eric Szymanski long-time mindfulness practitioners and association executives.  Holly's background includes more than 15 years as a certified association executive and certified meeting professional.  

Eric is a 20-year award-winning sales professional in brands such as Hilton, Marriott, Starwood, and Disney.  His commitment to world-class customer experience lead him to find mindfulness for stress reduction and focus.

Together Holly & Eric founded the AMA as the professional trade association where mindfulness professionals can work together to reduce any stigma around workplace mindfulness and advocate at the state and federal level for common sense mindfulness regulation as that becomes necessary for workplace mindfulness adoption on a wider scale. 

See Holly's LinkedIn profile for more information here.

See Eric's LinkedIn profile for more information here. 

Who can join the AMA? 

Members of the AMA include all aspects of the mindfulness industry including mindfulness professionals, teachers, universities, and technologists.  One key initiative of AMA is to reduce the silos in the mindfulness industry and be the place where mindful professionals can be mindful about bringing mindfulness into the workplace. 

Where was the AMA Founded?

AMA was founded in Denver Colorado to be able to serve the entire US and its International partners. 

How can I be involved in the AMA?

There are a variety of ways to be involved in AMA and no one path to participation.  Many professionals start with a guest membership in our 24/7 online community and quickly accept the invitation to full professional, corporate or academic membership.  Membership fees can be paid monthly or annually.  

What is the vision of the AMA?

The purpose of the American Mindfulness Association is to advance the industry and professionalism of mindfulness, promoting high standards and best practices within the field.

What is the mission of the AMA?

The mission of the American Mindfulness Association is to advance the industry and professionalism of mindfulness. We aim to provide education, resources, and support to practitioners and organizations, fostering the integration of mindfulness practices into various aspects of life and work to enhance overall well-being and performance.

The AMA references workplace mindfulness.  What do you mean by that?  

Workplace mindfulness is the ecosystem of tools that are safe and acceptable to use in the workplace.  While we know the power found in all types of mindfulness.  It can be unlawful and unsafe to bring spirituality into the workplace.  Our association is focused on serving those practices that are workplace safe, evidence based, and welcoming to all. 

 

What are the benefits of being a member of the AMA?

If you have been teaching or working in the mindfulness space any length of time it is possible you have experienced the "woo woo" factor. That place of being unwelcome simply by the use of or misunderstanding around thewhat exacty mindfulness is.  Our association brings together like minded professionals to address this. 
Much like a dentist is a member of the American Dental Association to add to credibility the American Mindfulness Association aspires to be this sample professional trade association for evidence based mindfulness.  

 

Are you ever looking for speaker for AMA events? 

We host monthly educational events and book discussion groups in addition to World Meditation Day (May 21) and World Mindfulness Day (September 12).  AMA members get priority access speaking opportunities.  If you are interested in apply to speak at a future event fill out the application found here. 

 

 

Can I submit my articles for the AMA blog?

Yes we accept guest posts for our blog on topics related to mindfulness.  Submit your articles to our editorial team here for consideration. 

What are the benefits of being an AMA volunteer?

Volunteers gain additional recognition and leadership opportunities by giving their time and talent to serve on an AMA committee or task force.  For more on what roles are available visit: https://www.americanmindfulnessassn.org/volunteer

What are the benefits of being an AMA founding sponsor?

A: Becoming a founding sponsor of the American Mindfulness Association (AMA) offers several unique benefits, including:

  1. Visibility and Recognition:

    • Prominent acknowledgment as a founding sponsor on the AMA website, marketing materials, and at events.
    • Logo placement and recognition in AMA communications, newsletters, and publications.

  2. Exclusive Networking Opportunities:

    • Access to exclusive events and networking opportunities with industry leaders, experts, and other sponsors.
    • Opportunities to collaborate with key stakeholders in the mindfulness industry.

  3. Brand Association:

    • Association with a leading organization dedicated to advancing mindfulness as a professional field.
    • Enhanced reputation and credibility through partnership with the AMA.

  4. Influence and Contribution:

    • Opportunity to contribute to the development and direction of the AMA’s initiatives and programs.
    • Ability to influence the growth and professionalization of the mindfulness industry.

  5. Resources and Support:

    • Access to exclusive research, resources, and training materials.
    • Discounts on AMA workshops, conferences, and certification programs.

  6. Marketing and Promotional Benefits:

    • Inclusion in AMA’s promotional campaigns and media outreach efforts.
    • Opportunities to showcase your products, services, or initiatives to a targeted audience of mindfulness professionals and enthusiasts.

Founding sponsors play a crucial role in supporting the AMA’s mission and helping to shape the future of mindfulness as an industry.

How is the AMA different than the International Mindfulness Teachers Association (IMTA)?

While both the AMA and IMTA are dedicated to promoting mindfulness, they have distinct focuses and offerings:

  • AMA: The American Mindfulness Association primarily focuses on advancing mindfulness as an industry and profession within the United States. It offers resources, training, and support to individuals and organizations to integrate mindfulness practices into various aspects of life and work. The AMA emphasizes the development of high standards and best practices in the field of mindfulness.

  • IMTA: The International Mindfulness Teachers Association is a global organization that specifically focuses on supporting and accrediting mindfulness teachers. The IMTA sets international standards for mindfulness teacher training and certification, ensuring that instructors meet rigorous professional criteria.

In summary, the AMA concentrates on advancing the mindfulness industry and professionalism in the U.S., while the IMTA focuses on the accreditation and support of mindfulness teachers worldwide. IMTA is a valued partner in this work. 

How is the AMA different than the Search Inside Yourself Institute (SIY Global)? 

A: The American Mindfulness Association (AMA) and the Search Inside Yourself Institute (SIY Global) have different focuses and missions within the mindfulness field:

  • AMA: The American Mindfulness Association aims to advance the industry and professionalism of mindfulness within the United States. It provides resources, training, and support for individuals and organizations to integrate mindfulness practices into various aspects of life and work. The AMA is dedicated to promoting high standards and best practices in the mindfulness industry.

  • SIY Global: The Search Inside Yourself Institute (SIY Global) is a mindfulness and emotional intelligence training organization originally developed at Google. SIY Global offers programs that combine mindfulness, neuroscience, and emotional intelligence to enhance personal and professional development. Their training programs are designed for individuals and organizations worldwide, focusing on building leadership skills, resilience, and overall well-being.

The AMA focuses on advancing mindfulness as an industry and profession in the U.S., while SIY Global provides specific training programs that combine mindfulness and emotional intelligence for personal and professional development on a global scale. SIY Global is a valued partner in this work.

How is the AMA different to Mindful.org and/or mindful magazine? 

The American Mindfulness Association (AMA), Mindful.org, and Mindful Magazine each serve unique roles within the mindfulness community:

  • AMA: The American Mindfulness Association focuses on advancing the mindfulness industry and profession within the United States. It offers resources, training, and support to practitioners and organizations, promoting high standards and best practices in the field. The AMA’s mission is to enhance the integration of mindfulness into various aspects of life and work.

  • Mindful.org and Mindful Magazine: Mindful.org is an online platform, and Mindful Magazine is its print counterpart. Both provide accessible content about mindfulness practices, research, and benefits to the general public. They feature articles, interviews, and practical tips to help individuals incorporate mindfulness into their daily lives. Their focus is on educating and inspiring readers to adopt mindfulness practices for personal well-being.

AMA concentrates on the professional and industrial advancement of mindfulness, offering resources and support for practitioners and organizations, whereas Mindful.org and Mindful Magazine provide educational content aimed at helping the general public, with self help understand and adopt mindfulness practices. They are a powerful partner in this work.

 

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