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 who already have a sense of the changes they wish to make and the habitual patterns they wish to soften. Those ready to listen within and grow the qualities they long to align with at this moment on earth. Those interested in secular Buddhist practices that support the cultivation of mindful awareness and compassion. Those seeking a witness who will listen deeply, not just to what they say but to who they are. Those ready to set their compass on their clear intentions and build skillful momentum for the new chapter ahead.
LATE SUMMER + FALL REFLECTIONS
Back-to-school time has arrived, once again, for our own children or grandchildren, family or friends. There's anticipation of new beginnings in the air, school traffic around town, school supplies in the stores, and a bit more bustle at the check-out counters. All the while, the crows share their voices from the treetops, the dry grass whispers in the warm afternoon breeze, and the crape myrtle bloom their pink and lavender blossoms. Perhaps we notice the sunflowers and dalias, savor the scent of the evening air, or enjoy one more weekend visit to a creek, river, or ocean. Water skeeters walking on water. Sand pipers probing the sand.
In pausing and tuning in to nature's beauty, slower pace, and changing seasons, we can feel supported:
— in aligning with a visceral sense of deep rootedness
— in remembering our capacity for steadiness, flexibility and resilience
— in touching the peace that is present in the natural world in this very moment
— in remembering our interconnection with all of life and what really matters
These life-giving practices feel so practical and essential at this time on earth. May we practice alone and may we practice in community, feeling the support of the earth beneath us, the trees that remind us of what uprightness and rootedness feel like, and the support of one another.
May these fall community offerings, and our daily intentions and actions, support us in actively harvesting the love and care for one another and the earth that we've grown over time, recommitting to let go of old ways of being that lead to greater suffering and create new ways of living and being that honor our connection with all of life. May we know that we can, and will, play our part in the healing of ourselves, our communities, and our world in need of care.
FALL COACHING + MEDITATION CLASS OFFERINGS
3-MONTH LIFE COACHING PACKAGES FOR WOMEN: HARVEST THIS SEASON! (Phone calls with Lori Stelling. One 90-minute discovery session plus nine 60-minute coaching sessions. Packages available until spaces filled– check for openings today! Learn more here)
Discover the benefits of the powerful combination of life coaching and training in mindfulness, equanimity, and compassion for those ready to take the courageous step to commit to pause and turn inward to clarify and grow the inner qualities and daily life choices that support greater well-being, purpose, resilience, and peace.
What habitual patterns will you soften and let go of this autumn season? How might life change if you were to align with your deepest intentions and fully commit to walking your path? What possibilities might open out of this renewed clarity of heart? How might this impact you, your family, your community, and our world in need of care? To learn more about this life-affirming 1:1 work, please contact me by e-mail at: lori@bluewatercoaching.net. I look forward to hearing from you.
Rose H.
Linda D.
Michelle R.
Michelle F.
Nicole C.
"They say, 'The teacher truly shows up when the student is ready.' I was ready. I began coaching with Lori at the start of the New Year with the desire to deepen my practice, explore "who am I?", and grow the qualities of acceptance and self-trust. Exploring these goals and this question with honesty, curiosity, and integrity has helped me access the courage to practice being vulnerable, open my heart to myself and others, and accept exactly who I am, and where I am, with more freedom and ease. Lori's coaching style is one of ease and grace. In our work together, I feel heard, seen, and understood. I find after each call I feel calm and centered, knowing "all is well" (10,000 joys and 10,000 sorrows) as I discover who I am. Now that I've completed the 3-month discovery phase of the coaching, I look forward to continuing on to the growth phase with wonder, joy, and excitement." ~ Rose Hancock
"I began coaching with Lori six years ago, shortly after my best friend passed away, when I was wanting to grow more connection and joy in my life. At first, we met weekly for a few months, and her support was so valuable that I chose to continue to work with her on a monthly basis. Through our work together, Lori has helped me learn more about myself, set meaningful goals that align with my intentions, achieve them and put my life and its challenges into a wider perspective. Lori has a gentle, insightful way of guiding you to connect with your authentic self, your heart, and your highest intentions. Her deep knowledge of Buddhist teachings, along with the wisdom she draws from many other spiritual traditions, provides a rich and inspiring foundation for the coaching. I always leave our meetings feeling more grounded, and with a more optimistic outlook on my life." ~ Linda Dietiker-Yolo
"Lori's coaching supported me through many transitions in my life, including navigating a mid-life career change. Our phone sessions allowed me to sink into vulnerability, openness and healing without worrying about being "camera ready" for a Zoom meeting. I could lie in my bed, sip coffee in my backyard, or stretch out on the sofa during our calls. I highly recommend beginning and ending with guided meditations, as Lori is a master at helping you ground and restore your inner energy and thoughts. In addition to her compassionate, supportive and engaging personality, Lori is an effective and results-oriented coach. Our sessions, which took place on and off during various seasons of my life over the past decade, built the foundation for a lifetime of emotional resilience, personal growth and overall well-being." ~ Michelle R., C-suite healthcare executive
"Working with Lori helps me cut through the noise of what the outside world says 'should' and 'ought' to be, and to spend a little more time resting in the peace of what actually is. This helps me grow trust and faith, practice loving kindness, and approach difficult situations in my life in new ways, rather than remaining stuck on the wheel of rumination and frustration. It is important to me to work with a coach as a regular touch point, inviting me to reflect deeply, share my insights, and feel closer to my life's purpose." ~ Michelle F.
"I have been taking classes with Lori in some capacity for almost a decade, and I've found her teachings instrumental in strengthening my relationships and mental well-being. Lori's weekly Tuesday morning classes ground me at the start of the work week. Our Friday Women's Circle has become the most nourishing hour of my week, where I've made lasting connections in a safe space where I am supported as I share my deepest thoughts. And, I've also pursued one-on-one coaching with Lori. These intensive sessions allowed me to home in on life's challenges as we worked together in an intimate capacity, clarifying my intentions and developing daily life practices tailored to me. I am so grateful for Lori. Through our work together, I have grown as a person and expanded my practice in ways I never imagined. She is a devoted practitioner whose depth of kindness, patience, and knowledge is a gift to everyone fortunate enough to work with her." ~ Nicole C.
New! GUIDED MEDITATION FOR AN AUTUMN EVENING In-person evening meditations with Lori Stelling
Enjoy one or more autumn evenings of gently guided mindfulness meditation. Take some deep clearing breaths, let go of the tasks of the day, rest in the body with the earth's grounding support, open to curiosity, simple kindness, and care. No previous meditation experience necessary.
Thursday Evenings in Napa 6:45pm to 7:30pm: Sept 3 + 17, Oct 15
$10 Napa residents/$15 non-residents. Senior scholarships available.
Learn more and register by clicking on the "Adults + Seniors" tab at Napa Parks + Recreation or call 707.255.1800
Sunday Evenings in St. Helena 6:45pm to 7:30pm: Sept 20, Oct 4 + 18, Nov 8
$10 St. Helena residents/$15 non-residents
Learn more and register at St Helena Parks + Recreation or call 707.968.9222
New! MEDITATION PRACTICE DAY: RELAXING INTO AUTUMN In-person mini-retreat with Lori Stelling
Saturday, October 31st from 10:00am to 3:00pm
Join Lori for a full day of practice in community, welcoming autumn's invitation to soften habitual tensions and encourage the harvesting of what brings greater well-being and ease. The day will include periods of instruction, sitting meditation, optional outdoor walking meditation, poetry, a mindful silent 30-min lunch (bring your own lunch), sharing, question/response, and 45-minutes of gentle floor movement (with alternative: use of chair) with senior Rosen Method movement teacher, Karen Peters. This offering is appropriate for beginning and experienced meditators. Learn more and register by clicking on the "Adults + Seniors" tab at Napa Parks + Recreation or call 707.255.1800.
MINDFULNESS MEDITATION FOR BEGINNERS 4-PART SERIES In-Person classes with Lori Stelling Mondays, Sept 28 through Oct 29 from 11:15am to 12:00pm (no class 10/11 for holiday)
(Class maximum of 12 participants in large room.)
Are you ready to discover or rediscover the benefits of meditation? This 4-part series supports bearing witness to the present moment with more curiosity and kindness, letting go of habitual tensions, and meeting ourselves, and our world, with greater compassion. No previous meditation experience necessary. Learn more and register for the in-person series by clicking on the "Adults + Seniors" tab at Napa Parks + Recreation or call 707.255.1800.
Jim O.
Joan O.
Ganga P.
Aimee C.
"I am so thankful that I allowed myself to start attending Lori's mindfulness 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
"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
"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
"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
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 12 participants in large room.)
Do you have a year or more of mindfulness meditation experience and long to connect with community to keep your mindfulness practice fresh and alive? This on-going monthly series includes gently guided meditations, teachings on mindfulness, and ways to support the growth of kindness, self-compassion, joy and equanimity in daily life. Learn more and register monthly by clicking on the "Adults + Seniors" tab at Napa Parks + Recreation or call 707.255.1800.
Pam B.
Nancy H.
Annabel M.
"I feel blessed to have found our Mindfulness Meditation Mondays class, with such an incredible teacher in Lori, seven years ago. With the support of Lori's teachings and meditation guidance, our short outside practice periods in nature (amongst beautiful surroundings) that leave me in peace, and the chance to share about our experience in each class, I've improved my daily life practice and grown my capacity to access wisdom, compassion, and loving awareness. I have learned a lot and am so grateful for our time together as a sangha." ~ Pam B.
"I am thankful to Lori for the teachings that I have personally benefited from since I moved to Napa in 2019. I found a treasure with Lori's guiding me into a peaceful place of meditation. She encourages me to let go and rest in awareness. I appreciate her kindness, wisdom and love that shine through her teachings." ~ Nancy H.
"Lori's Monday meditation class is a respite I look forward to each week. She is an exemplary instructor who consistently brings focused attention, deep compassion, and insightful teachings that she tailors for both the group dynamic and individual needs. Her commitment to living her practice is evident, and I value my time spent learning from her immensely." ~ Annabel M.
TUESDAY MORNING MEDITATION (INTERMEDIATE) Phone Calls with Lori Stelling
Tuesdays from 9:30am to 10:05am (35 minutes), on-going
(By-phone conference call - audio only.)
Join other experienced meditators for a weekly 35-minute phone call which includes 10-15 minutes of daily life practice teachings/tips and 20-25 minutes of lightly guided meditation to support grounding, connection, curiosity, kindness, clarity, courage, resilience, and care in these challenging times. To join the e-mail list and receive dial-in instructions, please contact Lori at: lori@bluewatercoaching.net. Each Tuesday meditation call is offered on a donation basis ($10 suggested donation; those under financial strain are warmly welcome to attend).
Jackie H.
Cara S.
Bob O.
Margret S.
"I have been attending Lori's by phone meditation for over a year now and I try to never miss. I can attend from wherever I am, in private comfort, in solitude, and with time alone after to enjoy the peace that her meditation brings me. She offers such a variety of experiences sharing information, poetry and then time in quietness. My practice provides me an opportunity to quiet my nervous system in a very stressful world." ~ Jackie Harrison
"Discovering Lori and this supportive phone-in class community, when I was struggling to find equanimity during the stress and uncertainty of the COVID pandemic, was truly a blessing. Lori brings deep knowledge of the spiritual, philosophical, and scientific aspects of mindfulness meditation, generously offering this wisdom on each call by carefully balancing the sharing of teachings, guided meditation, and poetry/readings. To this day, I find the phone-in format to be very effective, allowing me to listen and meditate within the comfort of my own space, move my body as needed without worrying about disturbing others, and providing me with the freedom to stay connected from wherever I am. Through her actions, Lori models kindness, compassion, and gratitude. I can't recommend Lori and our Tuesday phone-in class highly enough." ~ Cara Swartz
"Lori's meditation on Tuesday mornings really allows me to center myself and prepare for whatever comes up during the week. I enjoy Lori's teaching style because of her calm, soft meditation guidance, sharing of information on a wide variety of teachings, and readings of poetry or stories that are really enlightening. I also enjoy the fact that there's usually another meditation the following Tuesday, which kind of book ends my week." ~ Bob O.
"Knowing there is a small, quiet time each week that offers a place to center, release attachment to thought, and simply notice what arises in each moment, keeps me coming back to Lori's Tuesday morning meditation class again and again. Her gentle and joyful tone of voice, with pauses for silence, is a pleasure to be guided by, and supports the teachings, reflections, poetry, and stories sinking in. I much prefer the intimacy of our phone-in sessions over other formats like Zoom, and appreciate being able to practice in loose, comfortable clothing! Closing my eyes and tuning in to listening has me feel closer to the teacher and the other participants than meeting on screen. Our weekly phone sessions with Lori heighten insights, encourage a slower pace of living, and create time to experience life more deeply." ~ Margret Smetana
PRACTICE MEETINGS WITH A MINDFULNESS COACH 20 to 30 minute Phone Calls with Lori Stelling
Have you had a specific challenge or practice question arise outside of class that you would like support with? Has a particular teaching shared in class inspired you to wish to go deeper with a particular practice? Do you long to get a steady home meditation practice going but continually find yourself coming up against internal or external barriers to staying with it?
Schedule a 20 to 30 minute meeting with Lori to address your practice question(s) and help you sense into which practice tools and/or teachings may be helpful. These short meetings are offered on a donation basis and are intended to provide occasional practice support. If you are interested in more frequent practice support, please explore Lori's on-going meditation classes and life coaching offerings. To schedule a phone meeting, please reach out to Lori by email at: lori@bluewatercoaching.net
FRIDAY WOMEN'S MEDITATION CIRCLES - FULL with waiting list Phone Calls and occasional in-person gatherings with Lori Stelling
Typically offered 3 Fridays per month, 60 minutes, on-going monthly series
(e-mail to be added to waiting list)
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. In recent years, we've included reading books together at a slow pace and applying the teachings to our daily life practice. Please reach out by e-mail to be added to the waiting list: lori@bluewatercoaching.net
Brid S.
T.R.
Kathy O.
Nicole C.
"Participating in the women's mindfulness circle has become a deeply grounding and uplifting experience for me. I feel welcomed into a safe and compassionate space every week where genuine connection and reflection unfold. Each session offers me a supportive space to pause, be still, breathe, and reconnect with other incredible women walking their own paths. I am deeply thankful for the wisdom, warmth, gentleness and care that Lori brings to each gathering. Our practice time has helped me cultivate more patience, gratitude, and self-compassion, which now ripple through everything I do. Since returning to work during the COVID-19 pandemic, our switch to a by-phone format has been a gift that allows me to participate from my office and continue to benefit from this time that I cherish." ~ Brid S.
"Over the past several years, I've benefited from Lori's guidance through both the women's circle and by-phone morning meditations. I call in to class twice a week. This helps me to center myself and grow a greater sense of peace, especially during difficult times." ~ T.R.
"I never could have imagined when I joined our women's circle, back in 2020, that I would still be connected to Lori and this group of women 6 years later. Thanks to our group, I've grown more love and peace with how life is. Lori makes every circle time new, sharing teachings and guided meditations in a fresh way that enriches my life. Meeting mostly by phone, since the pandemic, hasn't lessened the impact and invites us to listen deeply to ourselves and one another. I can't imagine what my life would be like now without these years with Lori and the circle." ~ Kathy Odell
"I have been taking classes with Lori in some capacity for almost a decade, and I've found her teachings instrumental in strengthening my relationships and mental well-being. Lori's weekly Tuesday morning classes ground me at the start of the work week. Our Friday Women's Circle has become the most nourishing hour of my week, where I've made lasting connections in a safe space where I am supported as I share my deepest thoughts. And, I've also pursued one-on-one coaching with Lori. These intensive sessions allowed me to home in on life's challenges as we worked together in an intimate capacity, clarifying my intentions and developing daily life practices tailored to me. I am so grateful for Lori. Through our work together, I have grown as a person and expanded my practice in ways I never imagined. She is a devoted practitioner whose depth of kindness, patience, and knowledge is a gift to everyone fortunate enough to work with her." ~ Nicole C.
Read what others are saying about Lori's meditation classes
"Lori is a wise and skilled teacher, and a student herself always. When she openly shares little vignettes - stories rich with universal meaning from her own rich life, I feel encouraged to notice and be inspired by my own experiences during the coming week." ~ Margret Smetana
"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
"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
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.