Description
The final session of this practice group on Tuesday, December 9 will be offered hybrid (both in-person at the Center and online).
Equanimity is a balanced heart in the midst of change. The Buddha described the ways we are pushed around by the conditions in life as the teaching of the Eight Worldly Winds. These “winds” include praise and blame, gain and loss, pleasure and pain, and fame and disrepute. The cultivation of equanimity makes it possible to respond to these experiences with less reactivity and with greater wisdom and compassion.
Engaging the teachings and practices of the Buddha, we will find ways to embrace the ups and downs of life with equanimity and touch into the deep joy, peace, and happiness within our own hearts that exist beyond mere circumstances.
During our time on this theme, we will explore different ways to know equanimity within, and for, ourselves. Sessions will include sitting and walking meditation, talks, discussion, Q&A, and small group/dyad practice. Meditative homework will be assigned each week and discussed as a vital aspect of each session.
Attending an online practice group
- Sitting a practice group from home online differs greatly from coming to a meditation center. Tending to your comfort and giving yourself a quiet, private sitting and walking space (if possible, in your environment) will help keep your attention focused and support your practice and learning. Plan to bring as much simplicity and ease to your day as possible. The schedule of the practice group is structured to support your well-being and practice with regular breaks and time for mindful movement.
- We use Zoom for online practice groups. Before your practice group begins, be sure to download Zoom and familiarize yourself with using the program, including the chat feature. Specifics about how we use Zoom during your practice group will be covered initially; however, we cannot provide technical support during the group.
- We ask that you treat our virtual meditation hall as if we were together in person, in the same room. The teachers and other yogis benefit greatly from your full presence and careful attention.
- Join each session of the practice group a few minutes early. This will support the teachers and your fellow attendees.
- Please maintain noble silence as much as possible for the duration of the practice group and take any necessary steps to limit external distractions such as incoming emails, texts, or other interruptions to maintain the integrity of our practice together. Close all programs on your computer other than Zoom and turn off all notifications on your devices.
- Power off your phones and smartwatches for the entire practice group. Please don’t check your devices during breaks. We suggest you put an “away” message on your email and voicemail and leave your devices in another room during the practice group.
- Please keep your video on during our time together as much as possible. This supports a sense of connectedness and sangha.
- You will receive a welcome email from CIMC a day or two before your program, including the Zoom link, practice group schedule, and further information.