Diane has studied and practiced mindfulness since 2016. Her teacher (Surja Tjahaja, long-time, beloved community mindfulness instructor) recognized her passion and dedication to the practice and encouraged her to teach; he then mentored her while co-teaching. In winter 2024, she began teaching Mindfulness just weeks after retiring from a career of providing expert support to forestry and native plant nurseries. For 30+ years, she led multiple workshops and conferences and produced dozens of presentations and publications. Diane brings these skills, along with her enthusiasm for both science and mindfulness, to her teaching. She presents a blend of traditional mindfulness techniques and modern scientific findings to help students understand the functions, interactions, and influences of the brain, body, and mind as they relate to our experience of life. She includes relatable, personal examples to illustrate how one can incorporate mindfulness into everyday living. With this knowledge, students can outsmart stressful thoughts and reactions to cultivate a happier, healthier life. Beyond teaching, Diane enjoys many activities including traveling, geocaching, quilting, biking, music, and reading.