Meditation and mindfulness teachers in Australia: what to look for

They guide sessions, explain techniques, help with common difficulties such as a wandering mind or restlessness and encourage a regular home practice. Classes may be one-off, a multi-week course or an app-supported program.

• Short guided practices, usually seated or lying down.
• Time to ask questions and share experiences, with no pressure to disclose.
• Home practice suggestions.
• Clear information about what the course is and is not.

Meditation teacher is not a regulated title. Voluntary bodies exist: for example, the Meditation Association of Australia lists teachers. Ask about their training, how long they have practised and taught, whether they follow a code of conduct and whether they hold first aid and insurance. A teacher is not a psychologist, so look for clear referral when topics become clinical.

Costs range from free community groups to paid courses and retreats. We do not quote prices. Ask what is included and the refund terms, especially for retreats.

• Mindfulness meditation: paying attention to breath, body or sounds without judgement.
• Concentration practices: focusing on a single object such as the breath or a word.
• Loving-kindness or compassion practices: directing goodwill towards yourself and others.
• Guided relaxation and body scans: usually done lying down, often used for stress and sleep.
• Movement-based practices, such as walking meditation or gentle mind-body classes.

There is no single right style. Try a few and notice which you can keep up. Regular short practice is generally easier to sustain than an occasional long session.

Apps and recordings are convenient and low cost, a course offers structure and a teacher to ask, and a retreat provides immersion. Retreats can be intense, so read what is included, the teacher's experience, the support for people who struggle and the refund terms. If you have a history of trauma or mental illness, talk to your GP or psychologist before attending a long silent retreat.

Many beginners find their mind races, they get sleepy or they feel restless. That is normal and not a sign of failure. A sensible aim for the first month is five to ten minutes on most days, in the same place and at the same time, with a teacher or recording to guide you. Keep a note of how you feel, and tell your teacher if a practice brings up distress. You can always stop or choose a gentler technique.

1. What training and experience do you have?
2. Do you follow a code of conduct or belong to an association?
3. How do you support people with trauma or anxiety?
4. What are the fees and refund terms?

• 'Meditation means emptying your mind.' It is about noticing and returning your attention.
• 'It replaces treatment for anxiety or depression.' It can help some people but is not a replacement for professional care.
• 'You must sit for an hour.' Short, regular practice is common.

Check with a professional first. Speak to your GP or a psychologist if you have trauma, severe anxiety, depression, psychosis or panic attacks. Some people find intensive practice distressing; tell your teacher and stop if it makes you feel worse. If you are in crisis, call 000 or Lifeline on 13 11 14.