8-Week Online Mindful Performance Enhancement, Awareness, & Knowledge (mPEAK) Program

Overview

mPEAK is an intensive course in mindfulness training for those who seek to draw upon this proven practice to achieve their goals, both personal and professional, as well as attain new levels of performance and success. This cutting-edge 8-week course is built around the latest brain research related to peak performance, resilience, focus, and “flow”. The mPEAK program enhances the human capacity of mindfulness through established and empirically supported practices and exercises, tailored to fit the needs and desires of the team, organization or individual.

As with physical training, this mental-emotional training program is based upon the understanding that optimal outcomes occur most often when participants continue to engage in the practices and exercises on a daily basis as a part of their training regimen. Mindfulness is effective precisely because it is a way of being and relating to all aspects of life, rather than a specific technique or tool for a particular goal. The foundation of this program is drawn from the highly respected and empirically-supported Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) program. Additionally, the program incorporates specific practices and exercises formulated to correspond to recent neuroscientific findings, competitive advances, and related research regarding optimal performance.

The mPEAK program was developed in conjunction with the US National BMX Cycling Team in 2014, as a collaboration between the coaches of the team, UC San Diego neuroscientists Drs. Lori Haase and Martin Paulus, and the UC San Diego Center for Mindfulness Founding Director Dr. Steven Hickman and former Managing Director Allan Goldstein.

Whether you are an athlete, business professional, or simply want to participate in a program that brings together the latest neuroscience and mindfulness training to enable you to be at your best, please join us by registering for the mPEAK program. Help spread the word by letting your colleagues and friends in San Diego know about our mPEAK program. 

Topics Covered

 

PILLAR ONE

Inhabiting Your Body
The first section of the course establishes the body as the primary focus of attention and platform upon which mindfulness unfolds. It is designed to introduce participants to the experience of mindful awareness of the body, including interoception and proprioception.

PILLAR TWO

Getting Out of Your Own Way and Letting Go
The second section is devoted to addressing initial challenges encountered by participants, the universality of the wandering mind and the fruitlessness of trying to stop the mind from wandering. Recognizing “story” and the way in which we think influences how we perform.

PILLAR THREE

Dancing With Pain and Working with Difficulty (Fear, Stress and Failure)
The third section is intended to challenge the notion that avoidance is the best strategy when it comes to difficulty arising (e.g. pain, fear, stress, failure, etc.) and to use the experience of working with the body as a way of grounding oneself in the moment in the face of difficulty.

PILLAR FOUR

The Pitfalls of Perfectionism and the Glitch in Goals
This final section deals specifically with the contradictory nature of some concepts and attitudes that seem to be positive, but have some hidden limitations. Perfectionism and self-criticism can seem to be good motivators, but research clearly shows that people perform more effectively when motivated by encouragement, reward and self-compassion. Specific exercises and practices will be taught to address these findings and support people in finding optimal ways to motivate themselves and achieve their goals.

Continuing Education
Continuing Education Credits (BRN ONLY):

CE Credits require an additional $50 fee - paid for before the start date of the program. You must attend all sessions and the all-day session in order to receive the BRN CE certificate.

Continuing Education Credits are awarded in the following category: Board of Registered Nursing (BRN).

Nurses

UC San Diego Center for Mindfulness is approved by the California Board of Registered Nursing to sponsor continuing education. Provider Number CEP16351. 19.2 contact hours.

Cancellation Policy

A refund (minus your $100 non-refundable/non-transferable deposit) will be made for cancellations submitted in writing up to 15 days prior to the event start date by emailing mindfulness@health.ucsd.edu. No refunds will be allowed within 14 days of the event start date.

Please be aware that the registration fee, deposits, and funds are non-transferable to other programs.

In the unlikely event that the course is cancelled, UC San Diego Center for Mindfulness is responsible only for a full refund of the registration fee. In regards to the In-Person Programs, the center is not responsible for any refunds to transportation, hotel accommodations, or any miscellaneous expenses.

The refunds are processed in the same method as the payments were submitted (unless past 180 days).

Contact Email
mindfulness@health.ucsd.edu
Primary Center
Price
$895
Pricing Details
EARLY BIRD RATE: $845 (up to 30 days before the start date)

UC San Diego Employees may take the course for $845 ($795 if paid in full 30 days in advance).

Special pricing for UC San Diego Athletics Employees, Students, and for First Responders/Law Enforcement Professionals - please email us at mindfulness@health.ucsd.edu for your discount link.
Audience Type
Program Summary
mPEAK is an intensive course in mindfulness training for those who seek to draw upon this proven practice to achieve their goals, both personal and professional, as well as attain new levels of performance and success.
Use phased schedule
Off
Program Session
Wednesdays, 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM PT
Online
Enrollment requirement

CFM requires a minimum of 10 registrants. Programs with fewer than 10 will be canceled and fully refunded.

UC San Diego Research Development

Resource Type
Link
English
Resource Categories
Integrative Medicine
Resource Summary
Our central research development unit, housed within the Office of Research and Innovation. The Research Development (RD) team helps PIs and their teams find and pursue funding opportunities, collaborate effectively, produce compelling proposals, and compete more successfully for research funding.
Primary Center
REACH
Resource Audience

Expert Panel: Shaping the Future of Integrative Medicine

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Overview

Join us for a special evening of dialogue, inspiration, and reflection — an exploration of conversations on the personal and professional journey into integrative medicine and whole-person health — taking place on Monday, June 15 at UC San Diego. This unique event will bring together five nationally recognized integrative physicians for an engaging panel discussion exploring the personal experiences, professional journeys, challenges, and moments of transformation that shaped their paths into integrative and whole-person healing. Moderated by Daniel Vicario, MD, ABIHM, the conversation will offer an authentic and deeply human perspective on the evolving future of medicine —one that seeks to unite scientific rigor with compassion, connection, meaning, and the healing of the whole person.

This gathering aims to create a space for curiosity, inspiration, and meaningful dialogue across disciplines and perspectives. Topics will include the integration of conventional and complementary approaches to care, physician wellness and purpose, mind-body-spirit dimensions of healing, patient-centered care, and the growing movement toward a more compassionate, collaborative, and humanistic healthcare system. Whether you are deeply involved in healthcare or simply interested in the future of healing, this promises to be a thought-provoking and energizing evening that invites us all to reimagine what medicine can become when we care not only for disease, but for the whole human being.

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Guest & Keynote Speakers

Daniel Vicario, MD, ABIHM (Moderator)

A board-certified Medical Oncologist who has dedicated more than three decades to advancing the field of Integrative Oncology. Throughout his career, he has sought to thoughtfully integrate the best of evidence-based conventional cancer care with complementary healing approaches that support the whole person: body, mind and spirit. Guided by a lifelong commitment to compassionate, patient-centered care, his work has focused on enhancing quality of life, fostering resilience and healing, and supporting not only patients but also their families and caregivers throughout the cancer journey.

Ellen Beck, MD

A family physician, educator, and nationally recognized leader in integrative medicine, Dr. Ellen Beck has dedicated her career to advancing compassionate, whole-person care and medical education. She founded the internationally acclaimed UC San Diego Student-Run Free Clinic Project and helped establish the UC San Diego Center for Integrative Medicine.

Mimi Guarneri, MD, FACC, ABOIM

A board-certified cardiologist and pioneer in integrative medicine, Dr. Erminia “Mimi” Guarneri has dedicated her career to advancing a more comprehensive approach to cardiovascular health. She founded the Scripps Center for Integrative Medicine, combining leading-edge cardiac care with evidence-based lifestyle medicine to prevent and treat heart disease.

Sheila Patel, MD

A board-certified family physician and integrative medicine leader, Dr. Sheila Patel has dedicated her career to advancing whole-person health through the integration of modern medicine, lifestyle medicine, and mind-body practices. Through her clinical work, teaching, and leadership, she empowers individuals to achieve lasting wellbeing through personalized, preventive, and integrative care.

Robert Bonakdar, MD, FAAFP, FACN, ABOIM

A leader in integrative pain medicine, Dr. Bonakdar has dedicated his career to advancing multidisciplinary, non-pharmacological approaches to pain and headache care. As Director of Pain Management at the Scripps Center for Integrative Medicine, he combines expertise in nutrition, headache medicine, and global healing traditions to promote comprehensive healthcare.

Paul W. Corey, MD

A board-certified anesthesiologist and educator, Dr. Paul Corey has focused his career on advancing innovative approaches to mental health, consciousness, and healing. Through his clinical work, research, and leadership in ketamine- and psychedelic-assisted therapies, he has helped bridge anesthesiology, behavioral health, and emerging models of integrative mental healthcare.

Register Now

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Contact Email
cihinfo@health.ucsd.edu
Primary Center
Audience Type
Program Summary
Join five nationally recognized integrative physicians for an inspiring panel discussion on the personal and professional journey into whole-person healing, moderated by Daniel Vicario, MD, ABIHM.
Use phased schedule
Off
Program Session
Monday, 5–7 PM PST
T. Denny Sanford Medical Education and Telemedicine Center • 3160 Biomedical Sciences Way #0609 • La Jolla, CA 92093

Doors open at 5 PM. Guests are invited to enjoy light Mediterranean fare and healthful refreshments before the program. Panel begins at 5:30 PM.

Recipes

Resource Type
Link
English
Resource Categories
Nutrition
Resource Summary
View our expansive recipe database of nutritious meals tailored to accommodate various diets and needs.
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Primary Center
CIN
Resource Audience

Food as Medicine: Cooking School

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Overview

Food as Medicine at Home offers hands-on cooking classes streaming from the comfort of your own kitchen. These classes apply plant-based nutrition principles to support balanced, healthy eating.

Participants will learn about key nutrients—fat, protein, carbohydrates, fiber, vitamins, and minerals—as well as therapeutic approaches for managing body weight, blood sugar, cholesterol, blood pressure, gut health, inflammation, hormones, and longevity.

In this new class line up, participants will explore unique health concerns and apply functional nutrition ideas for healing. This course is ideal for anyone looking to build practical cooking skills and learn more about food as medicine. No prior cooking experience is required.

Course Highlights

  • Learn the benefits of functional ingredients, food combinations, and dietary patterns
  • Apply therapeutic nutrition principles to common health challenges
  • Experience plant-based recipes that are easy to prepare and taste delicious
  • Develop cooking skills to combine everyday ingredients into delicious balanced meals
  • Enjoy a shared meal and learn techniques for menu planning plus bulk and batch cooking

Class 1 – Woman’s Health: Midlife Support

Hormonal changes are inevitable in perimenopause and menopause and can affect a range of mental and physical symptoms including mood, concentration, sleep, metabolism, and both bone and heart health. This Food as Medicine cooking class will highlight practical nutrition strategies to support this transitional season of a woman’s life to help reduce symptom burden and promote long-term wellness through delicious, nutrient-dense meals.

  • Culinary focus: Heat-free cooking, building balanced meals
  • Health focus: Supporting healthy aging during perimenopause and menopause through hormone support, blood sugar balance, and bone health
  • Activity: “Nourish and Notice” journal
  • Recipes: Tofu Curry Salad Lettuce Wraps, Tahini Dipping Sauce, Hormone Harmony Smoothie

Class 2 – Foods That Fight: Oncology Nutrition

Addressing inflammation is a prime target for Food as Medicine, especially in the setting of oncology. In this cooking class, we’ll explore antioxidant-rich foods—polyphenols, carotenoids, and other plant compounds—that help calm inflammation, support immune health, ease recovery and healing, and promote long-term wellness.

  • Culinary focus: Plant-based diversity, cooking methods for nutrient preservation or enhancement
  • Health focus: Inflammation and related conditions, food-derived antioxidants
  • Activity: Plant food diversity tracker — daily phytonutrient checklist
  • Recipes: Turmeric Lemon Lentil Soup, Buckwheat Tabbouleh Salad, Sparkling Green Tea Mocktail

Class 3 – Seasonal Super Stars

As the days grow shorter and the holiday season approaches, November’s harvest offers a beautiful opportunity to eat with the seasons—and with intention. In this Food as Medicine cooking class, we’ll celebrate the season’s best offerings, transforming them into dishes worthy of your holiday table.

  • Culinary focus: Seasonal produce, batch cooking, low sodium – low sugar swaps
  • Health focus: The joy of eating, mindful eating, prioritizing your nutritional needs
  • Activity: Immune support take home recipes
  • Recipes: Massaged Greens and Grains Salad, Tempeh Stuffed Winter Squash, Carrot Ginger Potato Soup

Frequently Asked Questions

What will I learn?
This interactive 3-class line up will teach you practical, delicious ways to use food to support your health.

How long is the course?
Each class runs 1.5 hours via Zoom. We recommend setting aside an additional 30–60 minutes before and after for prep and cleanup.

What else do I get with this course?
Registration includes a digital class manual and recipe deck. All classes are facilitated by an integrative registered dietitian and include evidence-based nutrition education, live Q&A, and opportunities to connect with others who share similar health goals.

How much does the course cost?
Classes are $50 each. Participants also purchase their own groceries. Recipes typically cost $4.50–$6.50 per serving and yield 4–8 servings per class.

What happens if I cannot make the live cooking class?
Your class materials, recipes, and shopping list will be emailed approximately one week before the scheduled class. We do not provide calendar downloads or alerts.

If your plans change and you’re unable to join us live, we hope you’ll still enjoy preparing the recipes and reviewing the educational materials on your own. Our goal is for you to benefit from the Food as Medicine concepts, even if you can’t attend the live session.

Please note that classes will not be recorded.

Is this a vegan cooking class?
Yes, all recipes are 100% plant-based (vegan). However, the broader approach focuses on a whole-food, plant-based diet. Animal proteins may be discussed in the context of balanced, sustainable eating.

Will food allergies be considered?
Yes. Please indicate any food allergies at registration so the instructor can offer substitutions.

Can my family members participate?
Immediate household members are welcome to cook along! For those outside your home, please ask them to register separately.

What technology is needed for this course?
All classes are held via Zoom. You’ll need a Zoom-compatible device (phone, tablet, or laptop). A device stand or case is optional but helpful. Zoom links will be sent weekly before class.

Do I have access to the cooking class instructor outside of class time?
Yes, our dietitians are available for questions at cininfo@health.ucsd.edu.

Cancellation Policy

A full refund will be made for cancellations submitted in writing up to 7 days prior to the class start date by emailing cininfo@health.ucsd.edu. No refunds will be allowed within 6 days of the class start date.

Please be aware that the registration fee is non-transferable to other programs.

In the unlikely event that a class is cancelled, UC San Diego Center for Integrative Nutrition is responsible only for a full refund of the registration fee.

Refunds are processed using the same method as the original payment (unless past 180 days).

Contact Email
cininfo@health.ucsd.edu
Primary Center
Price
$50/class
Pricing Details
Classes are sold individually at $50 each. No series bundle pricing currently offered. Groceries purchased separately.
Audience Type
Program Summary
Hands-on virtual cooking classes applying plant-based nutrition to support your health. Three 90-minute classes via Zoom with a CIN registered dietitian.
Use phased schedule
On
Program Session
  • Class 1 – Woman’s Health: Midlife Support: Thursday, September 24, 12:00–1:30 PM PDT
  • Class 2 – Foods That Fight: Oncology Nutrition: Thursday, October 22, 12:00–1:30 PM PDT
  • Class 3 – Seasonal Super Stars: Thursday, November 19, 12:00–1:30 PM PDT

Registration includes a digital class manual and recipe deck. Groceries are purchased separately; recipes typically cost $4.50–$6.50 per serving and yield 4–8 servings per class.

Farm Bureau San Diego County – Certified Farmers Markets and CSAs

Resource Type
Link
English
Resource Categories
Nutrition
Resource Summary
The mission of the Farm Bureau of San Diego County is to represent San Diego agriculture through public relations, education, and public policy advocacy in order to promote the economic viability of agriculture balanced with appropriate management of natural resources.
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CIN
Resource Audience

Seasonal Food Guide

Resource Type
Link
English
Resource Categories
Nutrition
Resource Summary
We designed the Seasonal Food Guide to help you find out what produce is in season in your state throughout the year. By purchasing local foods in season from local farms, your food dollar goes directly to farmers, you eliminate environmental damage caused by shipping foods thousands of miles and you’ll enjoy the health benefits of eating fresh, unprocessed fruits and vegetables. Plus, local, seasonal produce just tastes better!
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CIN
Resource Audience

Environmental Working Group Annual Shopper’s Guide to Pesticides in Produce

Resource Type
Link
English
Resource Categories
Nutrition
Resource Summary
The Environmental Working Group’s mission is to empower people to live healthier lives in a healthier environment. With breakthrough research and education, we drive consumer choice and civic action. EWG publishes a guide every year for the “cleanest” 15 and “dirtiest” dozen fruits and vegetables according to their relative pesticide burden.
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Primary Center
CIN
Resource Audience

Writing Caves

Resource Type
Event
English
Resource Categories
Integrative Medicine
Online Event
Resource Summary
9–11 AM PT every Friday. Bring your big writing project, whether it is an article, book, grant proposal, or report. Join a UCSD REACH Scientist-Mentor for a 2-hour co-working writing workshop with an opportunity to ask questions or have a breakout session. No registration necessary.
Resource Duration
60+ minutes
Primary Center
REACH
Resource Audience