I took the Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction Course at Pause Mediation.The studio itself is beautiful. In an old Portland brick building with amazing timber pillars and rafters. There are tall windows that let in a lot of natural light. I especially enjoyed getting there during dusk, when the crows outside were flying around discussing where the best place to roost for the night would be. Ryan Kenny is a compassionate, funny, and understanding instructor. It was suggested by my therapist to find this specific 8-week course. A friend of mine had been going to Pause Mediation classes for awhile, and had invited me several times, but I hadn't yet taken her up on her offer. The class is not easy, but it builds each week on practices. There are simple phrases and ideas that I remember that are very helpful in stressful situations. Being in the world today with the COVID-19 pandemic, there is so much to brood and worry about. Instead of obsessively reading the news and stewing in "what ifs?", I focus on what is right now. Right now my family (including my old parents) are healthy. I talk everyday to my brother and sister. I'm writing letters to other family members and friends. It has been a time for me to have the opportunity to slow down and that has helped with my practice. I am grateful for Ryan and his patient encouragement. If you are not ready to take the 8-week course, Pause Meditation offers many helpful classes, I've especially enjoyed the sound meditations and the aromatherapy. read more

Ryan and Raina really have it dialed in at Pause meditation. It's a beautiful space in downtown, easy to get to, with a great vibe. They have a lot of meditation classes throughout the week that you can attend, even Saturday mornings. And they're also, from I hear, rolling out some corporate offerings, in line with corporate wellness. Ryan is even a local celebrity featured on the morning news in Portland. Not only is Ryan gifted at what he does and not only does he know how to cultivate community and make people feel welcome and connected, he is also deeply passionate about meditation and cultivating mindfulness. He lives and breathes what he teaches, walking his talk. Highly recommend Pause Meditation. You can't find a better meditation instructor in Portland! read more

I was recently tasked with organizing a mindfulness training for the staff at the non-profit where I work. My first conversation with Ryan was so pleasant and professional. He heard and understood the needs of our staff and put together a proposal for us very quickly. It blew all other potential options out of the water. From planning to delivery, working with Ryan was truly a pleasure. It was such a special experience to witness staff members connect so openly, vulnerably and compassionately in the incredibly safe space created by Pause Meditation. There were so many positive comments from staff after the training: "I thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of the mindfulness training provided by Ryan. If the opportunity arose I would participate all over again, exactly as he presented. Ryan's energy, beliefs and voice were captivating and motivating. I felt a validation and connection that gave me a deeper appreciation for how important this training can be to our well being. I've already shared his website with family in California. I intend to practice more mindfulness and utilize the tools Ryan presented... especially breathing. One of my favorite segments was Tool #2 Savoring. I've had a lifelong challenge in holding a healthy relationship with food. Ryan's presentation on savoring took me to a whole new level of hope! It would be awesome to attend a weekend retreat facilitated by Ryan. My deepest thanks and appreciation for this opportunity." -Shannon "I appreciated the amount of mindfulness practice that Ryan incorporated into the training. Not only did he explain and guide our group in type of mindfulness he also made us experience it. I left the course feeling like I learned so much. and My experience with and appreciation of food will never be the same." -Linzay "I thought Ryan had an amazing presence with each of us. I felt heard, responded to, and very gently offered many useful tools for supporting my well-being. It was well worth the 4 hours." -Janet Thank you again for an incredible experience. I cannot recommend Ryan/Pause Meditation enough! read more

I've been dabbling in meditation for 5 to 6 years, but it wasn't until I took Ryan's 8 week MBSR class that I firmly established the habit of daily meditation. Now I couldn't imagine a day without meditation! Ryan brings a depth of experience and understanding that comes from his many years of personal practice. I sought out Ryan again when I was ready to continue to deepen and evolve my meditation practice. This time I took his 6-week Clarity course. Wow! His teaching is so warm, kind, genuine and insightful. And effective! I got so much support in the form of weekly group practices, e-mails, recorded meditations and other content on the Pause website. Meditation and mindfulness is not always easy, but it's worth it. And a good teacher makes all the difference. As a result, I have found new success developing my 'informal practice' of mindfulness. Because of the Clarity course, I find myself able to reach for mindfulness throughout my day for presence, clarity and calm. This is life changing stuff, and I couldn't have asked for a better teacher! Thanks Ryan! read more

I stumbled upon Pause Meditation through the MeetUp app a couple months ago and have since made it a regular part of my weekly schedule. Mindful living has been a goal of mine this year and it's an ever growing part of my life, but I had some hesitation in participating in a guided group meditation. I'm so glad that I stepped out of my comfort zone and gave this a try. As it turned out it was it only expanded my comfort zone and providing a tool to tap into my consciousness. Ryan and Rena (the guide-hosts) are fantastic humans. I appreciate their open minds, open hearts and peaceful spirits. Pause is building a community that is welcoming, accepting which allows for each person's own unique individual experience. The groups are made up of an ever changing broad range of attendees in a comfortable space. Whether we come bearing the burdens of life's stress, a heavy heart, or simply seeking balance in our day, we all seem to share a common goal of curiosity and finding a peaceful space in our lives. In the stress and relaxation meditation classes Ryan guide's you through a meditative journey exploration, contemplation and release. In beginner's mind Ryan opens the mind to experiencing existence from the perspective of a child's curiosity. In both classes, you leave feeling a sense of openness, calm and peace. I feel very fortunate and grateful to have found the gift of Pause Meditation. read more

Beautiful, calm, and welcoming space. I stopped by for the lunchtime meditation with Heather. The physical space is quite nice - all wood and exposed brick, with large windows facing leafy trees. Heather was polite, friendly, and very supportive. There is no need to bring anything, and no need to prepare ahead of time. If you don't know anything about meditation, they'll teach you what you need to know. read more

I am a busy, stressed-out business owner who, on a whim, joined a group meditation with Ryan as the instructor about 2 years ago. It really shifted my thinking. I'd been dabbling in meditation apps at home but sitting with a group was a different experience all together. I also attended an 8-week MBSR Course at Pause last fall, and learned a lot about myself. Since then, I've discovered a regular and fulfilling practice and my stress levels continue to decrease in a noticeable way. Acquaintances and family members have commented on how much calmer I seem (most of the time, no one's perfect)! Ha ha! It's been a true pleasure to watch Ryan and Rena build their business. They've shared many resources, tips and books I've enjoyed at home and subsequently shared with others. Meditation and mindfulness have truly helped me lead a calmer balanced life. I feel so lucky to have Pause meditation studio in my wellness arsenal here in Portland. Treat yourself to Pause. Everyone deserves a break from life's pursuits, don't you think? PS Thank you R&R!!! read more

I moved back down to SF several months ago and I so wish there is a meditation guide and counselor as great as Ryan. Ryan and Rena are so wonderful. Every time I've went, it's been a great group of people and I leave feeling good; with better clarity; and wonderful thoughts. read more

I took a guided class from Pause Meditation shortly thereafter and felt a nice sense of calm I hadn't experienced in a while. The class helped me better understand that meditation was not all just about sitting still, that it was a practice of focusing attention and becoming aware when it drifts - that regular practice would improve focus and reduce stress throughout the day - that sounded good to me. I didn't grasp it all of course after one, short class but I was curious enough to put this medication idea to the challenge - I signed up for eight-week, mindfulness-based-stress-reduction (MBSR) workshop. I wouldn't have believed it if I hadn't experienced it myself. Each week the class brought new insights, unexpected discoveries about myself and calmer and contentment with life in general. The class most certainly has solidified my commitment to practicing meditation but I would think any Pause meditation classes would help. read more

I heard about Pause long before I finally walked in. The space is gorgeous -- wood floors and big windows with lots of dappled light. Of course, now with Covid, everything has gone virtual. Although I had doubts about feeling the same vibes virtually, I have found my virtual cushion it to be a place of respite. I love logging in and seeing other meditators from around the country. It makes me feel more connected and in sync when I take time to meditate -- especially now when I often feel fear and sadness with everything going on in the world. Rena & Ryan, the founders/owners are both such kind, warm people and they have an incredibly welcoming vibe whether online or in person. Highly recommend!! read more

Pause was the highlight of my visit to Portland. I attended two sessions -- one with Ryan and one with Rena. Both are extremely skilled in leading guided meditations, and I got so much more out of the time than I usually do during silent group sits. Wish my area had something like Pause. And hope more people discover this jewel in Portland! read more

This review is long overdue! I moved to PDX earlier this year, and prior to moving I spent time in Bali where I caught the meditation bug. Since, I've been working to integrate meditation into my daily life. I stumbled on Pause via MeetUp. I'd been skeptical of MeetUp in the past, but in the nature of keeping meditation present in my life I gave it a whirl. If you're feeling the same, give it a try - you won't be disappointed! Ryan and Rena are so welcoming and inviting. They are knowledgeable, and encourage open conversation around your meditation practice. If you're new to meditation but interested in learning and giving it a try - check them out! All in all, they're just amazing people! read more

I joined an 8 week class at Pause on Sunday evenings. There was also a full day on a Saturday, in which we did not speak or look at each other but did guided meditations and some yoga poses. I found the class to be very helpful in teaching me how to make mindfulness and meditation part of my daily life. My reason for taking the course had to do with a physical ailment I am dealing with and I feel that what I learned will help me no matter what happens. I intend to continue taking classes at Pause. read more

Fantastic sit with Ryan! Always nice to find another meditation community providing tools and tricks to deal with the many stressors of life. Experienced or beginner, Ryan's meditation on the beginner's mind really grounded me in my appreciation of the little things and on pausing (no pun intended) more. read more

I sought out the MBSR class at Pause because of a frequently overwhelming sense of anxiety, chronic pain issues, and a desire for more presence. I took the class with Ryan as the guide, and it's been noticeably beneficial. I find myself taking more time to sit in quiet reflection, with better tools for doing so. I can definitely say that continuing my personal mindfulness practice with this class has contributed a lot to my ongoing journey toward greater presence. I sit with my emotions better, not trying so hard to reject them. I've left each class with something valuable--whether it was something to really think on or simply a sense of warmth and acceptance of life as it is to carry with me for the rest of the week. I'd highly recommend the MBSR class, and Ryan specifically. read more

Ryan is the consummate professional and demonstrates a clear and compassionate understanding of his subject matter. He navigates his MBSR course with gentle and discerning care, all the while creating a welcoming environment for his students to explore their own edges in a supportive space. Great studio, great people. Great opportunity for growth! Take the class... you'll be glad you did. read more

My company recently hired Ryan Kenny of Pause Meditation for a work conference. The concept was to start each day with guided meditation, giving attendees a chance to breath and be present before the jammed packed day started. I can't say enough good things about this experience. Ryan was... * Responsive * Accommodating * Flexible (in pricing and schedule) * Professional * Positive * Experienced * Knowledgeable * Punctual and in the words of "Mary Poppins" * Practically Perfect in Every Way Ryan's approach, which is the approach of Pause, was to not have some existential, out-of-body experience. But rather to simply take a moment to breath, be present, be kind to yourself. Something we can all use in our every day life. It was the perfect way to greet our conference attendees and accomplish our objective. To this point, I greatly appreciate the time Ryan took to talk with me prior to the conference to get a sense of our vision for this unique session. His proposal was on point, which gave me comfort since we were hiring him from half way across the country. Overall, I highly, highly recommend Ryan & Pause Meditation. In fact, our entire team wants him to open an East-coast branch. I'll be the first to sign up for his classes when he does! Thank you Ryan and Pause for an amazing experience that both the conference attendees and our staff thoroughly enjoyed. read more

I was seeking an additional meditation group and found Pause through Meetup. The title of the Saturday sitting stood out to me: "WELL-BEING IS A SKILL: Meditation Grounded in the Neuroscience of Wellness". It felt self-empowering to think of well-being as a skill versus something you either have or you don't (based on circumstances, genetics, etc). When I entered the yellow house, I was warmly greeted by Rena. The meditation space felt inviting as well. It is cozy and has just the right amount of room to contain the group (in comparison to the church space I sit in with another group). As a newb, I appreciated that the process was explained clearly so there was less energy focused on "am I doing this right?, "am I fitting in?", etc. I also liked that the meditation was guided throughout. At the end of the sitting, we were told there would be a Mindfullness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) course starting soon. My current mantra is "if not now, when?", so I jumped at the opportunity and signed up. Looking back, I'm extremely grateful that that I set aside the time to cultivate a deeper practice within the structure of an MBSR course. I could probably type for an hour, but I'll try to boil it down. The MBSR course was a great way to start/improve/reset my mindfulness, meditation, and yoga practice. In addition, I saw the same faces each week, which means I had a built-in, supportive community. These people (including Ryan) experienced the journey with me and at the same pace. During those eight weeks, I learned a lot about myself, other people, and mindfulness in general. I was sad when it ended. I'm impressed that Ryan is willing to extend our experience by inviting us to participate in future silent retreats. I've joined Pause Meditation on Insight Timer and plan to attend future sittings. See ya around! read more

Ryan, Rena, and their Pause Meditation brainchild are fantastic. I needed more mindfulness in my life after picking up and moving to Portland in a stressed state. Their workshops and weekend events helped me find a couple good friends that I can meditate with outside of Pause, but I come to Pause Meditation on Mondays and Wednesday whenever it fits into my schedule - that hour-long section of relaxation/meditation is a great way to de-stress and reset after a long workday. I've gained great perspective thanks to these two and their workshops - I hope you find Pause and benefit from its great energy, too. read more

After attending a drop in session at their studio, we invited Ryan to come to our lab and do some meditation sessions with us in our Wellness Room. Although I have a great team, my sense was that they all could use a little break from stress in personal and professional lives. After just a few workplace sessions my team is happier and calmer, equipped with new tools for coping with whatever comes along! We couldn't be happier with the results and what we've learned. Thanks Ryan and Reyna! read more

A secular, science-based, Western meditation and mindfulness program. No hype. I highly recommend the eight-week course. It's arduous if you do the home practice (which you need to do to get the benefits), but worth the effort. Ryan is a common-sense, kind, highly-experienced teacher. I'm not one for superlatives (other than for some restaurants--see my Yelp reviews), but this program was well worth my time and effort (and the fees are low). read more

I found this place in my quest to be more mindful and i am just upset I didn't find it sooner!!! The practice is guided and you meet some really cool people! Highly recommend it. read more

As someone just beginning their meditation practice, I appreciate the research backed methods used by Ryan and Rena which help me develop my wellness muscles. The impacts of meditation with a live, in person guide and in person co-meditators is, for me, the pinnacle of the practice. read more

Pause Meditation is an oasis in the midst of a busy city. The studio is gorgeous, the staff is welcoming and warm, and the sense of community is strong. Owners, Ryan and Rena have an ease about them while being incredibly thorough and knowledgable. In my experience they set you up for success with a ton of real life tools so that your meditation practice begins to blend into every day experiences. Love this place ! read more

Moved to Portland recently and was looking for some group meditation options...luckily, I found Pause Meditation! Ryan was super helpful and welcoming along with all my fellow meditators (is that a word?), and I'd definitely recommend anyone to try things out here. Whether your a beginner or advanced, you'll feel comfortable with this group. read more

Ryan and Rena create a welcoming space that is encouraging and peaceful. It was very helpful to learn how mindfulness applies to daily life as well as in a silent practice. read more

I started attending Pause Meet-ups as a way to further dive into the world of mindful living. As a mindfulness practitioner, Ryan offers his experience in mediation and mindfulness-based stress reduction to anyone with the desire to live a more centered, present, and whole life. But not only that, what is truly compelling about Ryan is that he is thoroughly passionate about this endeavor, not just to share and help others, but to learn more himself. He is very much ego-less and lacks the "guru" type attitude that can be a turn-off to people like myself. Rena, his partner, often assists with the Meet-ups, and her presence makes the space feel even more like a true community. I look forward to more of what they have to offer in the future. read more

Go to any of Pause Meditation's classes, events, meetings, discussions, etc. and it will be the best thing you did that day. Whether you are brand new or deeply rooted in mindful practice, Ryan and Rena create a safe, nurturing, and supportive space to explore the scope of our consciousness and attention and to uncover what/who we are behind the noise of our busy buzzing minds, lives and world. I didn't know Ryan or Rena beforehand, but they are such beautiful, loving individuals who I can tell aim to make everyone in attendance feel seen and appreciated. For me, the guided meditations land in perfect balance of creating direction and simultaneously allowing space for individual discovery. You'll also meet inspiring people among the participants, genuine folks from all different backgrounds and walks of life with fascinating insights to share. In summary, be brave, and come out, and thank yourself afterward! read more

Having never participated in a guided meditation, I was curious where to begin. I found Pause on MeetUp and was first intrigued by the art gallery location, which helped sway my decision immediately. I was warmly greeted and welcomed by Ryan and participants alike and enjoyed an introductory class in a wonderful space with a dozen or so people. One certainly does not need meditation credentials to dive into this, quite the contrary in fact. Without spoiling the content itself, I will simply say Pause Meditation with Ryan at the helm was and continues to be a worthwhile experience. Feel no hesitation on this one, it's a knockout! read more

The room was a bit chilly, but the group and teacher were fabulous! If you are needing a great guided meditation I would definitely suggest coming. They all make you feel so welcome. For my future notes, bundle up like a snow bunny. ;) read more

I highly recommend checking out any of Ryan and Rena's guided meditation sits or classes, whether you're new to meditation or experienced and looking for a group to meditate with. The Pause instructors are super welcoming, friendly, and open to helping you grow and experiment with meditation and mindfulness. The meditation style is secular and based on scientific evidence for stress reduction, so anyone who is open to trying and sitting for meditation can get into it. It doesn't hurt that Ryan and Rena are mellow, chill, and uber supportive, with no pressure to 'do' meditation in any particular way, e.g. there aren't specific rituals or chanting like some meditation styles. Ryan and Rena lead regular weekly meditation sits with different themes. The Beginner's Mind series is a gentle invitation to look at your own assumptions and how you approach the world. The Rest and Relax series is based on the 8-week Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction series by Jon Kabat Zinn (researcher at UMass Medical School). Pro tip: The weekday series (Beginner's Mind and R&R) are at the Pepin Art Gallery which is a fun artsy space to gather in - meditate in an art gallery! And then there's the Saturday series, Well Being is a Skill, which is focused on aspects of resilience, which is in a open, light-filled studio. I've done several of these and only wish I had more time to do more of them - the people who come are friendly and it's fun to find like-minded souls interested in meditation. Pause recently started offering the 8-week Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction class (MBSR) which is a scientifically backed meditation style for reducing stress and treating all kinds of ailments, e.g. chronic pain, anxiety, depression, PTSD, etc. It's a great experiential way to build up a new meditation practice or deepen an existing practice. It's not a class based on reading and theory, but rather building up a habit gradually. I took the class and loved having a cohort of meditation buddies. The class features 8 weeknight meetings and an 'All-Day' meditation retreat (all guided), which is not a small commitment - but is definitely worth the investment if you're interested in getting more into meditation. Oh, and Pause Meditation rocks a pretty sweet website and Meetup group, so you can find all the info you need online, RSVP to meditations via Meetup, and even send donations online (or just do cash in person). read more

A truly memorable experience. I've meditated at other places before, but Pause is top notch. Ryan is an incredibly nice guy, with a professional and warm attitude. The location is convenient, the room is comfortable, and they will help personalize your visit. A real gem in PDX (not to mention the unmeasurable benefits of meditation). I personally like they way they guide you through it. I'll be back! read more

I had been looking for a meditation group/community since moving to Portland over a year ago. Pause Meditation was the first place I tried, and I stopped looking after that. Ryan and Rena are great teachers -- super supportive and welcoming. I immediately felt at ease with them. I liked their Saturday morning sessions so much that I enrolled in Ryan's 8-week Mindfulness based stress reduction (MBSR) class as well. That was also a great experience. If you're looking for a welcoming and enriching atmosphere, I highly recommend Pause Meditation! read more

Pause meditation provides a wonderful and warm atmosphere to cultivate a meditation practice. The brief secular/"science-based" knowledge sharing at the beginning is particularly useful as it compliments all belief systems and has helped sparked awareness by providing tools to navigate a busy and modern lifestyle. Founders Ryan and Rena are just welcoming and loving people who are very gifted at what they do. Ryan is an experienced meditation guide and has studied a plethora of mindfulness based methodologies. The undertones of the guided meditation narrative are supportive, compassionate, kind, and even playful at times. Pause meditations thinks outside the box with their curriculum and are particularly thoughtful in the different activities they offer in both the meditation arena and other mindfulness based activities like hikes, movie nights, or even coloring book nights. I highly recommend checking out this community as it has served as a valuable and beloved ally in my own personal journey inward. read more