basic practices
The Art of Breathing
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Sitting Meditation
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Walking Meditation
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Eating Meditation
Eating Meditation is the act of enjoying our food with mindfulness. Instead of running away in our thoughts or thinking about the next bite, we bring awareness to the food before us. The color, the texture, the taste, and experience. Between bites, we are determined to allow our utensil to rest, close our eyes, and savor the food as we chew. We can eat our meals in silence to allow ourselves to slow down and be truly present.
You may find reciting the Five Contemplations before eating an opportunity to express gratitude and still the mind.
Dharma Sharing
Dharma Sharing is the practice of sharing from our hearts into a silent, open and non-judgmental space. Our sharing gives us the opportunity to better understand each other, ourselves, and water a collective insight without the need to react.
We share guidelines in order to create a conducive environment for everyone's wellbeing and to water the seeds of deep listening and compassionate speech--
This is an opportunity to share from our heart--our joys, obstacles, and questions--not from an intellectual or philosophical mind space.
What is shared in the circle should remain in the circle to create an air of confidentiality. Please do not talk about others sharing without explicit permission.
Practice Deep Listening, when one is speaking allow them the floor without interruption or reaction. We are determined to breathe with the emotions that may arise within us.
Avoid giving advice or constructive criticism. Share from your own experiences that may be on topic while using "I" instead of "You".
In order to allow everyone the space to share, be mindful of how long you are sharing and to refrain from sharing multiple times if others have not yet had the chance.
Do not engage in cross talk, what is shared is directed into the circle, not at any sole individual(s).
To share, bow into the circle (or any other visual indicator) to inform the group and then bow out once finished. You may wish to share your name while bowing in.
Sharing is optional, no one needs to share if they would not like to.
Embrace the silence. Between each share, allow space for at least three breathes. If no one wishes to share, enjoy the silence and the facilitator may offer a new prompt.