Steve Parsons came down with shingles a decade ago, and never fully recovered. While most people with the viral infection see symptoms subside in a matter of weeks, the retired psychotherapist developed postherpetic neuralgia, a complication that causes chronic nerve pain.

Parsons didn’t want to load up on prescription medications to manage his condition, so he decided to experiment with meditation. While the practice hasn’t cured his pain altogether, it has helped him detach himself from it.

Now, he teaches others how to quiet their thoughts and control their breathing every week at the Bainbridge Island Museum of Art.

Join Parsons for Mindful Meditation, 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. Thursdays in the BIMA auditorium. Attendence is free.