FARMINGTON — A nine-session stress reduction program, will begin with a mandatory orientation session set for 6 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 19, in the Bass Room at Franklin Memorial Hospital, according to a news release from Franklin Community Health Network. Dr. Kathleen Hickey is the program instructor.

After attending the orientation, participants can decide if they would like to move forward with the complete course.

The course consists of eight consecutive two-and-a-half- to three-hour sessions and includes an all-day retreat on Saturday, March 4.

The first class will begin at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 25, and the remaining weekly classes take place at 6 p.m. Thursdays. Participants should be committed to perform one hour of daily practice and homework to learn and practice mindfulness meditation, Hatha yoga and body scan.

The program is designed to teach participants scientifically proven practical skills to reduce stress and improve overall health and happiness.

“The course is designed for adults and the skills gained can help participants apply mindfulness practice to the many life stressors in everyday life,” said Hickey, according to the release. “Mindfulness means being completely in touch with the present moment in a nonjudgmental fashion. Several formal mindfulness practices will be taught including very basic yoga; however, no prior experience with yoga is necessary to take the class.”

To register, or for more information, call Hickey at 491-9878 or email kmhickey.kmh@gmail.com.