Kindful Canada Symposium: Conference on Mental Health and Kindfulness

This symposium is for anyone interested in finding health, wellness, happiness and peace by being more mindful and kindful through meditation practices.
Join our host, the “Urban Buddhist Monk,” and a diverse line-up of guest speakers, covering topics related to health and wellness: where does kindness and empathy originate in the brain; the inherent energy in each of us and connectedness we experience; storytelling by a First Nations shamanic teacher; social capital in personal and business success; and the neuroscientist and psychologist provide insights on physiological responses to stress and the tools available.
We also examine current biomedical research practices, along with the potential impact of “kindness” in the areas of human rights, sustainability, and climate change – can we be kinder to our fellow human beings and planet?
The “Urban Buddhist Monk” envisions a more mindful and kind nation:
✅ To bring awareness of good values in people.
✅ To bring awareness of good values in people. To promote physical and mental fitness and mental health.
✅ To bring awareness of good values in people. To promote a way of life based on tolerance, concord, and kindness.
✅ To bring awareness of good values in people. To promote good will and harmony in action, speech and thought.
✅ To bring awareness of good values in people. To make Canada the happiest, healthiest, kindest and the most peaceful nation through mindful meditation.
✅ To bring awareness of good values in people. To lead by example, as a Mindful Nation, and collaborate with other nations to shape a more Mindful World.
Through the Mindfulness is the awareness of inner transformation we are bringing to the public, that all personal and social problems can be eliminated simply by changing a negative mind to a positive mind.
Urban Buddhist Monk
Founder and President of “Canada: A Mindful and Kind Nation”
Organizer of the 7th Annual Kindful Canada Symposium
www.canadaamindfulnation.ca
Dr. Bhante Saranapala, aka Urban Buddhist Monk in Toronto, has been spreading kindfulness, mindfulness and Vipassana meditation across Canada/United States for over two decades. He has brought the ancient teachings of wellness techniques forward but with a contemporary way of helping us better understand the teachings of the “Awakened Ones” from a western application. Dr. Bhante Saranapala’s deep knowledge of meditations and the neuroscience have him captivating audiences all over.

The Urban Buddhist Monk
Founder of “Canada: A Mindful and Kind Nation” & “Kindful Canada Symposium: A National Conference on Kindfulness and Mental Health

Title of Presentation: Mindfulness Meditation for Health, Wellness, Happiness and Peace with Guided Group Meditation

Dr. Bhante Saranapala, author of "Are You Kindful?"

– Recipient of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms from the Government of Canada
– Recipient of “Canada 150 Medal and Sesquicentennial Community Award” from the Government of Canada
– Recipient of Spirit Award from the Government of Ontario

- Recipient of 2024 Dr. Ambedkar Peace Award

Known as the “Urban Buddhist Monk”, an appropriate nomenclature for a Buddhist Monk for modern times, Reverend Dr. Bhante Saranapala has been acclaimed as a consummate teacher of meditation by a growing number of seekers of spiritual and healthy life and peace of mind in North America and Europe who admire his simple and all-embracing approach in transmitting the universal message of love, kindness, compassion, understanding and wisdom. He has earned an enviable reputation as a global public speaker and a meditation master par excellence. Born in Chittagong, Bangladesh, Dr. Bhante Saranapala, after receiving both his monastic and secular education in Sri Lanka, made his way to Canada to further his studies (Masters and Doctoral studies at the University of Toronto and McMaster University) and soon addressed his mind to the noble task of spreading in the West his own tested approach to Mindfulness and Insight Meditation. Settling down in the City of Mississauga-Toronto West, he has been a monk in residence at the monastic fraternity of the West End Buddhist Temple and Meditation Centre for the past 30 years. In September 2019, Venerable Dr. Bhante Saranapala was appointed as the World Civility Ambassador by the iChange Nations for his extraordinary kindfulness works around the world. Currently, Dr. Bhante serves Toronto Police Service as the Buddhist Chaplain.

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University of Toronto & Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto

Title of Presentation: Kindfulness: Science, Spirituality & History

Description:
This presentation will explore the psychology of kindfulness and its impact on mental and physical well-being. Additionally, I will provide a concise overview of the concept's history, its theological foundations, and its interpretations across various religious and theosophical traditions.

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Associate Professor, McMaster University
Scientist, Population Health Research Institute
Consultant Neurologist, Hamilton Health Sciences

Title of Presentation: Survival of the Kindest: The Science of Kindness and the Perks of Simply Being Kind

Description:
"Kindness is fundamental to human survival. Our ability to share, assist, and show compassion has arguably been more vital to the survival of humankind throughout history than sheer physical strength.

The impact of kindness is not just symbolic; it is deeply rooted in the way our brains are wired. Have you ever experienced that warm sense of fulfillment after committing an act of kindness—whether it’s helping someone with their groceries, offering a compliment, or simply smiling at a stranger? This sensation is more than just a feeling; acts of kindness trigger biochemical reactions in the brain. Kindness therapy, which integrates mindfulness meditation with regular acts of kindness, has been shown to effectively address a range of physical and emotional challenges.

In this session, we will delve into how kindness influences both body and mind and explore how it can foster a network of supportive individuals and communities, ultimately paving the way for a brighter future."

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Creator of Lead with L♡ve, BA, MEd
White Oaks Resort & Spa

Title of Presentation: The Power of Leading with L♡ve

Brief Description:
Marta Pawlowski, the visionary behind Lead with L♡ve, has orchestrated numerous holistic events. An educator by profession and a wellness enthusiast at heart, Marta is dedicated to spreading love and positivity.

With extensive experience in the fitness industry and the creation of holistic wellness events, Marta has had the privilege of collaborating with renowned speakers, healers, and artisans. Her partnerships with organizations such as Pathstone Mental Health have helped raise awareness for important causes.

Marta’s personal healing journey has guided her to her true calling—Leading with Love in service to others. Her mantra, "Heal thyself + All things are made POSSIBLE," reflects her belief in the power of love and self-healing.

Lead with L♡ve is a heart-centered movement that is rooted in community. Marta's vision is to inspire others to open their hearts, walk their true paths, and make a meaningful impact on humanity as leaders of love.

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Health & Wellness Coach, Speaker, and Author

Title of presentation: Finding Resilience & Peace Amidst Chaos: A Journey Through Caregiving with Kindfulness

Brief description:
This presentation explores the power of kindfulness as a means to cultivate resilience and inner peace during life’s most challenging times. Drawing from my personal journey through my father’s battle with cancer and dementia, I will demonstrate how mindfulness and emotional intelligence can be instrumental in managing the intense emotions, stress, and uncertainty that accompany caregiving and significant life changes. Participants will learn practical strategies to maintain their well-being and inner tranquility in the midst of chaos, nurturing a sense of peace and strength that not only supports personal growth but also contributes to a more compassionate society.

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Radiologist, Trillium Health Partners
Mississauga, Ontario

Title of Presentation: How Tai Chi Improves Memory

Brief description:
Dr. Cuong Tran is a full-time radiologist at Trillium Health Partners, specializing in diagnostic imaging. With a background in traditional Chinese exercise, Dr. Tran integrates both modern medicine and ancient practices in his approach to health.

In his work, Dr. Tran plays a crucial role in helping doctors detect, diagnose, and treat various diseases. He is also a strong advocate for preventive medicine, promoting the philosophy of a healthy mind in a healthy body.

As the principal instructor for the Vietnamese Mississauga Integral Tai Chi Club, Dr. Tran teaches regular Tai Chi Qigong classes, including sessions for the Golden Age Vietnamese Seniors and the Happy Senior Club at the Active Adult Mississauga Center.

In his presentation, Dr. Tran will discuss the benefits of Tai Chi on memory and lead a brief exercise session.

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Senior Qi Gong Instructor, Remote Fa Chi® Practitioner, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
&

Generational Master of Chi Gong
Pureland International Qigong

Title of Presentation: "The Intersection of Kindfulness, Energy, and Psychotherapy: Exploring Qigong"

Description:
What is Qigong? It’s a mindfulness-in-motion practice that channels the flow of energy (chi) to enhance overall wellness for the body, mind, and spirit. In the first part of this session, Jacqueline Chan will explore how integrating kindfulness with energy practices can rejuvenate our well-being and nurture personal growth. In the second half, her mother, Master Teresa, will join to share her insights on Eye Qigong and its benefits. Join us to discover how embracing a loving perspective on life and integrative energy practices can reveal beauty and support restorative healing.

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First Nation Storyteller, Shamanic Teacher of Sacred Medicine, International Speaker

Title of Presentation: Walk the Four Quadrants: The physical, Spiritual, Mental and Emotional

Description:

As we walk the Medicine Wheel of Life we must walk the four Quadrants: the physical/Spiritual/Mental/Emotional. All are equal to each other. One of our challenges in walking the sacred hoop is learning the Pathway to surrender. Letting go in order to know balance in our lives come with me & we will walkthe Sacred medicine Wheel together. See you there!

miigwetch
White Eagle

Doug / White Eagle is a Spiritual Councilor, dowser, speaker and storyteller. An ordained, non-denominational minister, he focuses onNative Spiritualism and Sacred Medicine.

He facilitates: 

• Baptisms
• Weddings and holy unions
• Funerals
• Spiritual and feathered ceremonies
• healing ceremonies to bring balance to the Earth

White Eagle has dropped the Sacred Tobacco in many places: from the Killing Fields of Siagon Malayasia, to Teanamin Square in Beijing, and in the Forbidden City and on the Great Wall of China.

He has done a blessing ceremony at Our Lady Well, and the Initiation of the Raven Clan at the Temple of the Moon in Glasgow, Scotland.He has done ceremony of the 80th anniversaryof the British Society of Dowsers in Cirencester, England.

White Eagle has done ceremony at the Taj Mahal in India to honour the Freedom Fighters of the world including Ghandi, Mandela and Mother Teresa and at Ghandi's final resting place in New Delhi, India.

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Co-authors & Founder of The Gatehouse

Title of Presentation: Dynamic Balance: The Tao of Forging Personal and Social Transformation

Description: 

Dynamic Balance, where ancient wisdom meets modern science to guide you into the realms of mindfulness, neuroplasticity, transformative learning and A Call To Kindness. “Why must anyone seek for new ways of acting? The answer is that in the long run the continuity of life itself depends on the making of new (paradigms)…The continuous invention new ways of seeing (and being) is our special secret of living.” (J.Z. Young, Biologist)

This session will engage the participants in a highly interactive process that has been the mainstay of the award winning, international recognized work, of The Gatehouse (www.thegatehouse.org) for the past 27 years, as well as the combined 77 years of Arthur and Brad’s work in the field of mindfulness, community justice, transformative education and transformative social justice.

The predominant themes that are specifically referenced in this session are Mindfulness, Neuroplasticity, Psychosynthesis, Indigenous Teachings, Buddhism, Taoism and Transformative Learning and Transformative Social Justice. With mindfulness as our anchor, we cultivate presence and awareness, allowing you to navigate life’s challenges with clarity and resilience. Dynamic Balance extends beyond individual transformation—it's also about creating more synergistic relationships. By integrating transformative processes, we envision a culture where healing and restoration are prioritized, where conflicts are resolved withempathy, kindness and understanding.

At the heart of our approach lies the concept of balance—a dynamic equilibrium that harmonizes mind, body, and spirit. Drawing from the wisdom of Arthur and Brad’s book “Dynamic Balance”, this session offers practical tools and techniques to help you find your center amidst life's chaos.

Arthur Lockhart
Order of Ontario

Arthur has held the positions of Chair of The School of Social and Community Services, Professor of Social and Community Services. Senior Development Manager, Ministry of Correctional Services. Arthur is the Founder Emeritus, of The Gatehouse (www.thegatehouse.org), Founder of the Global Poetry Movement (https://globalpoetrymovement.com), Co-Founder Survivors Council Canada (https://survivorscouncil.ca), Arthur founded the Annual International Transforming Trauma Into Triumph Conference. Arthur is the co-author of the books: Community Lost and Found-A conversation between two Dreamers; Restorative Justice Transforming Society; The Heartbeat of Extraordinary Education; Dynamic Balance-The Tao of Forging Individual and Social Transformation. Arthur Co-created the documentary films addressing Childhood Sexual Abuse: Five Steps-The Gatehouse; Into the Light, and Illuminating Silence Arthur has received a number of recognitions for his work including Order of Ontario; Canada’s Top 50 Champions of Change; Paul Harris Fellow; Innovator of The Year, Inaugural Distinguished Community Service Award; Toronto Mayor’s Community Safety Nominee; Purple Door Award; Youth Impact Award and multiple student-teacher awards. Arthur presents workshops on the local, national, and international levels within the field of transforming trauma, transformative justice and the power of mindfulness.

Brad Hutchinson’s journey is a powerful story of resilience, leadership, and commitment to community well-being. An award- winning community leader, author, and international speaker, Brad is passionate about personal and social transformation, always bringing lighthearted humour to his presentations, even when tackling stigmatized areas of our culture. As a Black Sash teacher of Shaolin Kung Fu, he blends Eastern insights with Western practicality, reflecting his dedication to empowering others. Beyond martial arts, he has led as Executive

Director of The Gatehouse, working in areas often shrouded in stigma, and is a LivingWorks Master Trainer of ASIST, sharing life-saving skills with compassion. Brad’s life is a testament to overcoming adversity, spreading joy, and using challenges as stepping stones to greatness—all while keeping things fun and uplifting.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

The Meeting House Oakville, 2700 Bristol Circle, Oakville, Canada