Mindful Awareness Practices (MAPs) are the signature educational programs of the UCLA Mindful Awareness Research Center (MARC). These six-week class series are open to the public and are offered both on the UCLA campus as well as the Toluca Lake Tennis Club in Toluca Lake, CA.  MAPS lay the foundation for students to understand basic principles of mindfulness, develop a personal meditation practice, and to apply the principles in their daily life.  

To learn more and enroll, click here:

MAPS I - Introductory Series

MAPS II - Intermediate Series

What Are People Saying About ClasseS

"I was at Brian's Resiliency Immersion Training with Lt. Rich Goerling in West Virginia. Both instructors were incredible! I truly mean that they are changing people's lives - they should be so VERY PROUD of themselves. It’s a movement and hopefully it changes and sheds light on to how we can be better people to each other.  It changed my life - that was just what I needed, so I appreciate it. Wish I had mindfulness when I got home from the Marine Corp. Would’ve helped a lot. The evidence is overwhelming and the studies show it works. I just wish wish we could embrace it more as a culture. I know it’s not for everybody but I think it’s a tool in the toolbox. So again I very much appreciate you guys!!! Changing the world."  

Patrick Davis, Firefighter, Parkersburg, W. Virginia Fire Dept.

"Brian’s course is mandatory for anyone searching for ways to better his or her life.  During the six weeks you will notice awareness increase, anxiety lessen, and your quality of life exponentially grow.  This evolution is subtle in nature and simple in practice.  Moments of mindfulness will become daily and welcome surprises.” 

-- Catherine Siphron

"Brian is an amazing facilitator. I was very reluctant to do this training due to my preconceptions about meditation, but after spending only a few minutes with Brian, I began to breathe again! (It had been a long time).  He is a brilliant communicator, and an extraordinarily companionate human being. He is pure love and wisdom! He is able to reach all ages from kids to teens to adults. His teachings left a profound influence in my life. Thank you Brian for your generosity in bringing your meditation techniques to my acting school. My students can’t stop talking about you! A pure gem!!!”  

-- Marnie Cooper

“Brian Shiers makes meditation achievable for all levels of practitioners.  His clear and compassionate presentation of meditation techniques makes students feel safe to try and want to continue after the class is over.           

P.S.  Handouts were all great and very helpful.”   

-- Gail Portrey

"I recommend these classes to anyone wishing to increase focus in daily life, or anyone dealing with stress, anxiety, or other overwhelming emotions.  Brian lives what he teaches - he's kind, non-judgmental, and curious.  His example is his most powerful teaching tool."

-- Dan O'Bannon

"This class, being my first, has introduced me to tools that I know I will use for the rest of my life and will share with others.  Brian's personality and presentation makes you feel like you have not only a teacher but a partner in the practice."

-- Noelle Blessey

"The time invested in sitting has dramatically improved my relationships with my children, parents, and strangers.”

 -- Dana Boyd

"Brian is beyond talented and has been a huge blessing to the players and the program in general."

-- Mike Sealy, Head Coach, UCLA Women's Varsity Volleyball