Fabienne Blankendaal

My journey in mindfulness began in an academic setting, where modern psychology and neuroscience helped me find the right language for teaching. Over time, I found myself increasingly drawn to ancient wisdom. For me, mindfulness connects us with our shared human experience and offers a sense of grounding in today’s turbulent world.

Mindfulness goes beyond stress reduction. It invites us to explore life with curiosity, kindness and compassion, becoming more aware of how we relate to ourselves, others and the world around us.

As a teacher, or rather a facilitator, I see participants as the experts of their own experience. Instead of offering ready-made answers, I encourage exploration through practice, dialogue and reflective inquiry. I aim to create a welcoming space where everyone can participate in their own way.

Ultimately, mindfulness is not about becoming a better version of ourselves, but about being more fully present with life as it unfolds.

Specialisations: MBSR | Mindfulness in the Workplace | Return to Work | Bespoke Programmes

Everyone is welcome! Inclusion and diversity have always come naturally to me. Throughout my career, I have worked with people from all walks of life, across different cultures, backgrounds and organisational levels. In a way, I speak many languages. I am genuinely curious about people’s stories and value different perspectives. It’s simply part of my DNA.

I work with individuals and groups who are curious about mindfulness, whether they are looking for ways to relate differently to stress, navigating change, or simply wishing to explore a more mindful way of living.

So consider this an open invitation, especially if you’re thinking, “Mindfulness is probably not for me.” You are just as welcome!

My professional background in occupational health, coaching and organisational development has given me first-hand experience of how working environments, organisational cultures and periods of change affect people. This experience continues to inform my mindfulness teaching, particularly when working with individuals and teams navigating pressure, uncertainty and transition. My work taught me the value of taking time to understand what is happening, exploring what helps people and organisations stay healthy and well.

I have extensive experience in supporting employees through sickness absence and their successful return to work.

I have always had a passion for change and transition. My own experience has added a personal dimension to this work. Looking back, I can see how naturally this connects with mindfulness: taking time to pause, becoming aware of what is happening. 

I feel drawn to working with people who are ‘on the move’, literally or figuratively. Whether changing jobs, moving to another (part of the) country or finding yourself in a period of transition, mindfulness can offer a space to stay connected, or reconnect with yourself.

I am at the beginning of my journey as a mindfulness teacher, with three years of study, intensive guidance and supervision, peer learning, and experience in teaching MBSR.

My personal practice is a very important part of my life. Of course there are periods when I practise less. And I notice the difference! In those moments, I find support in a quote I often return to:

“The essence of mindfulness is the willingness to begin over and over again.”

— Zindel Segal, Mark Williams and John Teasdale, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy

For me, this captures an essence of mindfulness.

I teach MBSR, Mindfulness in the workplace, 1 to 1 mindfulness programmes. I offer one to one coaching.

Organisations:

Programmes Mindfulness Based Wellbeing in the workplace

Consultancy on Health Promotion; employees re-entering the workplace.

Interested in exploring mindfulness? Discover my programmes or get in touch for an introductory conversation.