Multifaith Mindfulness Meditation
This calm, welcoming mindfulness meditation session runs each week at the Sacred Space in Dandenong Hospital. It's aimed at people seeking simple concentration practices, gentle spiritual connection and mental health support in a relaxed hospital setting.
As a parent, you might appreciate a short, restorative break in your week: these 30-minute sessions are intentionally brief, approachable and free, making them easy to fit around school runs and after-school activities. The focus is on practical mindfulness techniques that help with stress, sleep and attention.
You don't need prior experience to attend. Sessions are designed to be inclusive and multifaith, welcoming people of different beliefs and backgrounds who want to learn basic meditation skills.
What to Expect
Arrive a few minutes early if you can; volunteers and staff will welcome you into the Sacred Space and help you settle. Expect a calm, low-key atmosphere with guided practice focused on breathing and gentle concentration.
The sessions are short and practical: 30 minutes of guided meditation suitable for beginners and those with some experience. Key takeaways typically include a simple breathing technique, a short body awareness practice, and a few tips for fitting mindfulness into a busy family life.
Practical points:
- Sessions are free and relaxed
- No special clothing is required; sit comfortably
- Suitable for adults and older school-aged children who can sit quietly for 30 minutes
Activity Details
When: weekly on Thursdays from 14:30 to 15:00. There is no set end date published, so the sessions run regularly on a continuing basis at the hospital's Sacred Space. This makes it a dependable midweek routine for busy parents.
Format: a short guided meditation led by a facilitator, with moments for quiet reflection and optional light sharing at the end. The emphasis is on concentration skills and mental wellbeing rather than religious instruction.
Accessibility and participation:
- No bookings required; walk-ins welcome
- If you require additional assistance to participate, contact the council prior to attending
Location and Access
Sessions are held in the Sacred Space at Dandenong Hospital, 135 David Street, Dandenong — a central, easy-to-find location for families in Greater Dandenong. The Sacred Space offers a quiet, sheltered environment suitable for meditation practice.
There is hospital parking and nearby public transport options; give yourself extra time for drop-off and pick-up during busy school hours. The entrance to the hospital and wayfinding to the Sacred Space is signposted from the main hospital foyer.
If you're visiting with older children, consider bringing a quiet activity for after the session while you chat briefly with the facilitator. The space is calm and family-friendly but not set up for very young children who may need active supervision.
Important Information
Sessions are designed to support wellbeing and are not a replacement for medical or mental health treatment. If you have specific health concerns, speak with your GP or a mental health professional in addition to attending mindfulness practice.
If you need assistance to participate (mobility, hearing, or other support), the council asks you to make contact ahead of time so staff can help make the session accessible. The sessions are free and open to everyone regardless of background or faith.
Please arrive comfortably dressed and consider a small cushion if you prefer extra seat padding. Wear layers if the hospital space is cool, and turn off mobile phones to maintain the calm environment.
Booking and Prices
Cost: Free — there is no fee for these weekly mindfulness meditation sessions at Dandenong Hospital. This makes it an affordable, low-commitment option for families looking for mental health and mindfulness support.
Bookings: none are required; you can simply attend on a Thursday at 14:30. If you prefer to check before coming, contact the Greater Dandenong Council reception on 8571 1000 for the latest details and accessibility information.
For further questions about the sessions or accessibility needs, call the council or speak to hospital staff on arrival. The ongoing nature of the sessions means you can drop in when it suits your family's timetable.