Group Practices
Plum Village sanghas include people from all walks of life, from various ethnic and religious backgrounds and of all ages.
What everyone has in common is an interest in cultivating mindfulness through the Plum Village practices.
An evening meeting is usually about 1 ½ to 2 hours long.
The shape of the evening may vary to fit the needs and interest of the Sangha members.
Conscious Breathing
The practice of following our breath, sitting at ease, inviting ourselves to smile is a wonderful way to bring us into the present moment and connect with each other.
Sitting Meditation
Many people find it difficult to sit regularly at home alone. Yet when we sit together as a community, the same practice is easy! This ease arises because we are supported by the presence of others. Sitting meditation will usually be guided, with some time of silent sitting too.
Walking Meditation
In walking meditation we practice stopping – we walk in peace, supported by our breathing and the earth beneath our feet. In doing so, we are able to transform any nervousness, stress, and anger into calm peace and insight. *
Reading or recitation
This can take the form of Recitation of the Five Mindfulness Trainings, a short discourse or a passage from one of Thay’s books. We may listen to a talk by Thay or another Plum Village teacher on CD, DVD or via the internet. The Plum Village Youtube Channel is a great resource.
Group Sharing
After enjoying meditation together we can share our insights about mindfulness practice and what it offers our daily lives. This is an opportunity to practise mindful speech and deep listening. We speak from direct experience offering practical insights that may be helpful to others. Dharma sharing is a way of sharing the Sangha wisdom and of showing our care for our Sangha members. :: link
Example schedule
6:30 pm Welcome and intros
6:40 pm Guided sitting meditation
7.00 pm Walking meditation *
7.10 pm Silent sitting meditation
7:20/25 pm Reading/short talk/listening to an on-line audio or video
7:50 pm Dharma Sharing
8: 15 pm Close
Other Sangha practices
Tea drinking – we can enjoy drinking tea and eating a sweet biscuit together in mindful silence
Songs and Mindful Movements – singing, chanting and enjoying mindful movements together are another way to connect with each other.
Donations
As the group has certain costs, mainly for Zoom at the present, we have a 'donations bowl' to encourage donations to cover these. We are not meeting in person so contact Sujatin if you would like to donate.
Other activities as a group
In time we may offer other activities as a way of building friendships and nurturing the energy of the Sangha. These don’t need to be formal and can involve meals together, walks, meetings to view Thay’s talks etc.
* During times for 'walking meditation' the sangha will be muted. Members can walk, of course, chant if they wish or sit in silence, maybe with a cup of tea.
