Welcome


Welcome to BlueWater Coaching.

Offering a combination of life coaching and training in mindfulness, equanimity, and compassion practices that support those interested in the cultivation of clarity, well-being, purpose and peace.

It is likely you've arrived here because you are ready to make meaningful changes in your life.

BlueWater Coaching begins with one central question:
"What qualities do you long to grow, flow with, and share today?"

To answer this question honestly, we must call on courage. The courage to take moments of our day to slow down the momentum of our modern lives. The courage to STOP, listen inwardly, and touch into the sincerity of the deepest longings of the heart.

When we practice cultivating the qualities we long to grow, we begin to live from our values. The actions we take toward ourselves and the world around us are more often informed by the seeds of well-being we have consciously sowed. We become these qualities. They live through us. We become the embodied manifestation of these qualities in the world.

I work with those who know, on a "gut" level, that real change must be made over time, from the inside-out. Those ready to listen within and honestly explore what qualities they long to grow more of in their life at this moment on Earth. Those who already have a sense of the changes they wish to make in their life and are interested in secular Buddhist practices that support the cultivation of mindful awareness and compassion. Those ready to soften habitual patterns that no longer serve them. And those seeking a witness who will listen deeply, not just to what they say but to who they are.


WINTER REFLECTIONS

As we transition into the winter season here in Northern California, I'm finding myself drawn, more than ever, to accept winter's invitation to sense into silence, to listen inward to my longing to rest in the vast stillness of the crisp air, quiet bare trees, and clear blue skies all around us. I'm noticing that I don't wish to hibernate like a bear, per say, but I do wish to slow down, to REALLY slow down, and be awake to nature's serenity (when I can), that I may touch in and out of moments of gratitude and reverence for the blessings and the mysteries of this moment on Earth. I know that this practice of noticing and leaning into vast, open, spacious, kind, awareness helps me to notice more space around the moment in front of me. Whether it's a moment of taking in my 15-minutes of daily news about the multiple world-wide crises unfolding or the joy that arises at a glimpse at a winter's full moon, I know that the practice of sensing into the vastness of space, while feeling the Earth beneath my feet, will guide me to the most skillful and appropriate responses I have available to me. Yes, my responses won't be perfect. There will be moments of messiness or momentary regret. Yet, I know that I can trust my capacity to "begin again" in any moment. I can adjust, rebalance, and redirect my being towards what will bring greater well-being and lessen suffering, again and again.

What are you called to make space for this winter season? What is nature's invitation to you? What supports you in slowing down enough to listen deeply, inside and out? What self-care is needed, at this time, to prepare you for this Spring's blooming? (whatever it may be)

May these winter offerings help you to stay centered and attuned amongst the storms. May you drink in simple moments of quiet joy when they arise– the pink sunset above the building across the street, the crisp smell after a winter rain, the warmth of your tea mug on your skin, the mitten wave of a neighbor, the early green tips of a patch of daffodils just breaking through the winter's soil, proof of the truth of change and the promise of Spring.


WINTER COACHING AND MEDITATION CLASS OFFERINGS

BY-PHONE LIFE COACHING FOR WOMEN
(Winter space is limited – e-mail now to check for openings!)

Is it time to get grounded and clear for the New Year, and open to what's next? What qualities and daily life practices will breathe life into your being this season? How might you move through your days with greater clarity of intention, resilience, self-compassion and active hope? Whether from the comfort of your own home (or favorite pajamas!), or from the convenience of wherever you are, by-phone life coaching provides a nourishing, intimate space that invites you to pause and tune inward to clarify and grow the inner qualities and daily life choices that support greater well-being, purpose and peace. To learn more about this life-affirming work, contact me by e-mail at: lori@bluewatercoaching.net. I look forward to hearing from you.

4 WEEK SERIES: GROWING THE OPEN + COURAGEOUS HEART
Phone Calls with Lori Stelling
Wednesday evenings, Jan 17, 24, 31 + Feb 7 from 6:30pm to 7:40pm
Fee: $75
(Limited to 6 participants, please contact Lori by January 5th)

Receive guidance on how to grow the protective and supportive qualities of lovingkindness, compassion, joy and equanimity in formal meditation and throughout daily life. Continue to clarify your deepest intentions for these difficult times and what practices and activities will honor your staying the course of your path. To register, contact Lori via e-mail at: lori@bluewatercoaching.net

OPENING HEART SPACE: A MOVEMENT + MEDITATION MINI-RETREAT
In-person with Karen Peters + Lori Stelling
Friday, February 2nd from 5:30pm to 7:30pm
(Class maximum of 14 participants in large room.)

Join Lori and Senior Rosen Movement Teacher, Karen Peters, for a Friday evening mini-retreat blending the potent pairing of Rosen and meditation, inviting us to ground and soften in the body, redirect the mind to our present moment experience, and open the heart space. Let go of habitual tensions and relax into a greater sense of curiosity and kindness, self-compassion and grace. Learn more and register through: Napa Parks + Recreation and click on the "Health + Wellness" tab, or call 707.255.1800.

MINDFULNESS MEDITATION MONDAYS (INTERMEDIATE)
In-Person classes with Lori Stelling
Typically offered 3 Mondays per month, 12:15pm to 1:15pm, on-going monthly series
(Class maximum of 14 participants in large room.)

The New Year is here-- a perfect time to "begin again" by gathering in community with other experienced meditators who are receiving the benefits of keeping their mindfulness meditation practice steady and alive! Appropriate for those with 1 or more years of previous mindfulness meditation experience. Learn more and register monthly through Napa Parks + Recreation and click on the "Health + Wellness" tab, or call 707.255.1800.

BY-PHONE TUESDAY MORNING MEDITATION
Phone Calls with Lori Stelling
Tuesdays from 9:30am to 10:05am (35 minutes), on-going

Please join all those who have taken community meditation classes with me in the past for a weekly 35-minute phone call which includes 20 to 25 minutes of gently guided meditation and 10 to 15 minutes of daily life practice tips to support well-being, grounding, and compassion in action in these challenging times. These calls are offered on a donation basis (about $10 suggested donation; those under financial strain are warmly welcome to attend). For more information and to join the Tuesday class e-mail list, please contact me by e-mail at: lori@bluewatercoaching.net

FRIDAY WOMEN'S MEDITATION CIRCLES
Phone Calls with Lori Stelling (current class is full, e-mail to be added to waiting list)
On-going, typically offered 3 Fridays each month (60 minutes)

Gather within a supportive small circle of women for gently guided meditations, teachings and reflections, savoring the opportunity for friendship on our journey of aging, learning and growing together. Each class includes guided meditations; teachings on mindfulness, lovingkindness, compassion, joy, and equanimity; and time for sharing and mindful listening within a kind, inspiring community. Please reach out by e-mail to be added to the waiting list: lori@bluewatercoaching.net


Read what others are saying about Lori's meditation classes

"One of the best treats I've ever given myself is Lori Stelling's meditation class. After being out of practice for decades, I had been struggling to restart on my own. Lori's gentle method of beginning with just a few minutes of meditation, guided by her calming voice, opened that stuck door for me. I look forward to taking more classes with Lori; each session reveals another tip for bringing peace into my everyday life."
~ Joan Osterman, retired vocational rehabilitation counselor, Napa Valley, CA

"Lori has a teaching presence that is warm, welcoming and always compassionate. She is a thoughtful and reflective teacher and is committed to serving others through her work. I highly recommend Lori's meditation classes— you will walk away feeling more connected to your own heart and to others. I always find her teachings to be relevant to my life."
~ Bhavana Mody, environmental science teacher and yoga instructor, Novato, CA

"I am so grateful to have discovered Lori's meditation and mindfulness classes. Our group sessions helped me discover ways to successfully manage my stress levels and find calm and balance in everyday life. Wanting to deepen my learning even further, I followed up with an individual life coaching package. Lori's insightful, compassionate approach supported me in cultivating self-compassion and establishing healthier relationships with others. I would highly recommend Lori to anyone seeking personal growth in a meaningful way."
~ Michelle Rai, college professor, Napa Valley, CA

"In meditation class, Lori skillfully guided us in learning how to work with body discomforts and relax, anchor the wandering mind, and observe our human experience with curiosity and openness. Her voice was soothing, kind and had the effect of calming. At the end of class we had interactive discussions and often expressed that we felt a greater sense of ease. We just have to continue to practice! It was my privilege to have met Lori and sat with her in meditation."
~ Ganga Padmesh, retired, Napa Valley, CA

"Lori's teaching style is warm, intelligent, and empowering. She has a gift of connecting with both beginners and long-term practitioners through the use of stories and personal experiences that illustrate the teachings in an easily accessible way. Lori's style humanizes the teachings, offering inspiration for all practitioners to deepen their practice, emphasizing self-compassion and a caring for the world that is deeply personal. I highly recommend Lori to anyone who is looking for inspiration and guidance in their meditation practice and a witness to their journey through life."
~ Forrest Hill, Founder, Napa Valley Insight Meditation

"I am so thankful that I allowed myself to start attending Lori's Mindful Meditation Classes. At first I felt some inner resistance to going to a meditation class, thinking it would seem a little strange and I would not be comfortable. My experience has been the exact opposite. Lori has a wonderful skill for connecting and making everyone feel safe and at ease. Lori guides you in working through body and mind discomforts and coming to terms with life's issues and stresses."
~ Jim O'Kelley, retired, Napa, CA

"The insights I encountered through Lori have helped me along my journey and continue to shine a light when my mind is confused (when it creates self-imposed suffering). I find myself saying, "Ah, Hello there.", in a friendly way. The ability to see my thinking in a broader context (and greet it kindly) is life-changing."
~ Aimee Cavenecia, artist, Yountville, CA