Karen is the co-founder and CEO of MindfulnessUK, leading all aspects of the organisation and pioneering new initiatives, growth, and development. Author of “Compassionate Mindful Inquiry in Therapeutic Practice” (2020, Singing Dragon), her dynamic leadership and innovative vision drive the continued success and expansion of the organisation.
In 2019, Karen served as the Chair of the British Association of Mindfulness-Based Approaches (BAMBA) and remains an active member of the BAMBA team. MindfulnessUK, under Karen‘s guidance, is a recognised teacher training organisation affiliated with BAMBA and EAMBA (European Associations for Mindfulness Support Exchange) and is regulated by the Counselling and Psychotherapy Central Awarding Body as well as the CPD Standards Office. Karen is also an Honorary Lecturer at Queens University, Belfast and sits on their Advisory Board for the research they conduct on Compassionate Mindful Resilience.
Karen‘s journey into mindfulness and yoga began in her 20s after experiencing insidious trauma. She found sanctuary in her body through compassionate and mindful yoga practice. This initial exploration led her to seated meditations and the development of a deep philosophical and spiritual practice over the decades. She became a yoga teacher with the British Wheel of Yoga, further solidifying her commitment to these disciplines. A pivotal moment in her life came with her first experience of cancer in 2013, which deepened her practice of self-compassion. This transformative period changed ingrained patterns, introducing self-soothing phrases and mindful acts of kindness.
Outside of her professional life, Karen finds joy in nature. She is a keen gardener, particularly enjoying the beauty of scented and colourful flowers. She loves swimming in the sea and cycling through the Blackdown Hills on her beloved electric bicycle, Bluebell.