SITTING MEDITATION

Meditation is perhaps one of the most important things that we can do, as it cultivates stillness and tranquility as our foundation, with the resultant intuitive insights that occur within that open mental space. Group meditation is a wonderful experience. Coming to the center removes distractions - you are here, now, with nothing to do but sit. We find strength from each other, sitting quietly together. It is powerful to experience many minds merging into one space of stillness.

Each session begins with a short talk to set the intent and offer guidance from foundational to nuanced concepts followed by a brief stretch to open and prepare our bodies to sit. We then sit meditation for 35-45 minutes in two blocks with the opportunity to stand and stretch in the middle. While there is a short talk at the beginning, the intent of the meditation sessions are for them to be highly experiential via the quiet group meditation, as, ultimately, meditation is the process of inward discovery.

Tuesdays, 6-7pm except weeks where Meditation Exploration happen. All are welcomed. Meditation cushions and chairs are provided.

Note: Next session March 24th

Cost: There is no set cost for this. Please contribute an amount comfortable for you when you come.

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MEDITATION EXPLORATION

This session explores different meditation practices each month from the rich traditions of Buddhism and beyond, such as chanting, mantra recitation, bowing rituals, and more.

Next Session: Bowing, Chanting, Quiet Meditation. April 7th, 6-7pm.

Cost: There is no set cost for this. Please contribute an amount comfortable for you when you come.

Signup: space is limited. SIGNUP HERE TO RESERVE YOUR SPOT

This month we will meditate through movement, sound, and silence. We will perform full or half bows in a slow, mindful manner as a moving meditation. Then we will move directly into chanting to experience sound and vibration to enhance our meditative awareness - something humans have been inherently drawn to since ancient times across numerous cultural traditions. From there we will let the vibrations settle into silence, finishing with a quiet sitting meditation period.

This month we will use the OM AH HUM mantra to purify body, speech, and mind. Using our chanting method of sending vibrations to different areas through our mind, body, and space around us, this is a powerful, immersive experience.

Full bows will be taught, with half and quarter bow options to accommodate all mobility levels. The chanting techniques will be taught, so no experience necessary. As always, NO SINGING SKILLS REQUIRED for chanting! While this practice has a natural musicality, it is a meditation and not a performance, so please do not worry or feel self-conscious. In fact, chanting is a great way to get us out of our heads and into an unhindered flow - break through distractions and saturate yourself in the spirit of sound.