Open Letter to Saturday Meditation Attendees
Open Letter to Saturday Meditation Attendees
On Saturday evening, it came to mind to write an email to the participants of the first two weeks of the new Saturday morning meditation class. I thought it would be a good idea to check-in and see how folks were feeling about the class experience – what worked, what didn’t, as well as what could be improved upon, added, or deleted.
Then I thought why write it just as an email to a select group; ultimately, there is nothing secret or confidential about it. So I decided to write this as a blog post, essentially as an open letter to those who attended one or both of the classes. In addition, those who did not attend could get a peek at the thought process behind the class, and perhaps it would appeal to them. The only perceived loss is that those who would have otherwise received it as a direct mailing into their inbox would now have to venture to the blog to read it. The way around that problem was to keep this as a blog post and potentially send it to all attendees as a direct email, if needed.
In response, people have the option to comment publicly on the blog below or write back privately. So here goes….
Meditation is Yoga
Yoga itself is a meditative endeavor, as six of the eight limbs of astaunga yoga (the 8 limbs of classical yoga) are directly meditation oriented. The remaining two limbs are related with (a) yogic morality and life principles, and (b) the physical yoga postures, or asanas. Hence, I have always felt that a regular meditation class was an important component of our weekly schedule. And we’ve had periods of success with it over the years, but not always. So after the initial two sessions of our new, 20-minute “Meditation for All” class, I thought it important to touch base with you.
Our First Two Weeks
First off, thank you for attending. We’ve had a strong turnout for these first two classes, and I certainly would like to see that continue and not face that slow, quiet attrition that often happens with meditation classes.
The initial two sessions of our class have touched upon: (a) breathing techniques, (b) visualization, (c) ideation, (d) chakras, and (e) mantra. In addition, we have explored theory and intertwined it with practice. Future elements include the use of sound / singing bowls, as well as lengthened stretches of silent meditation. The overall aim is to make the class a living workshop, or mental laboratory, to reach a calmer, more tranquil mental state, gain a greater understanding of what meditation is about, and, at the same time, supply you with the tools and fundamentals to embark on your own home practice.
To conclude each week’s session, we have embarked on a short topic of discussion. The first mini-talk at the end of class focused on how meditation is not a resultant but a process, which is why in Sanskrit it is called sadhana, meaning effort or struggle. So meditation is the discipline of sitting and trying to focus the mind in a particular manner – some days are easier than others, and our duty is to keep on trying, building that base where it becomes more and more natural for the mind, and hence more peaceful and serene. And the second mini-talk addressed the notion of unity and social cohesion, and how that can only result from a distinct shift in mental outlook that comes from meditative experience, not external engagement.
Ongoing Dialogue
In leading the class, it is always a challenge to strike the right balance between instruction and experience, theory and practice. In addition, what works for one participant may not always be agreeable with the next. And, as the teacher, it is not always readily apparent how the session was for each participant, whereas in the more physically-oriented classes it is far easier to see and evaluate one’s progress. Most importantly, the intent is to keep this as vibrant meditative offering that suits the needs of our community.
So please feel free to share your reflections about the class, especially if some aspects did not appeal to you. Public comments below are fine, yet I also realize you may prefer to share more personal aspects privately, in which case you may write me here.
Thanks, and I look forward to the ongoing development of our class and cultivation of a thriving community of meditators…
This may not pertain to what you’re asking, but I would love to have a meditation time after each class. Maybe even 5 minutes to practice sitting in a quiet meditation.
Also, I love when you do the bowls, I would like it if they were much quieter. Just a faint background sound, as my focus is only on them and I find it hard to have a quiet mind.
Thank you for the chance to input as a group!
Thanks Tina – your comments are quite relevant and I will look into incorporating those points – perhaps by adding a meditative session onto our Tues AM class or just lengthening the contemplative period at the culmination of our regular classes – many thanks….
Although I have not attended the new Saturday class, I have enjoyed your once a month Thursday night meditation Circle. I like starting off with the breathing to settle the mind. Also, I do seem to get more out of a longer time than 20 minutes. It sometimes takes that long to clear the mind. However if someone was in the yoga class before the meditation class that would be a good start to relaxing for a deeper meditation.
Hi Teresa,
Your longstanding interest and support of the Meditation Circle over the years is so much appreciated. And I know how dedicated you are to your home practice as well.
Thanks so much for taking time to check-in….
Satyam
So it seems these first two classes have had a pattern with a calming beginning, introduction of a meditation strategy (like visualization or specific breathing technique) and then the time to try out the new strategy, or use an old one…
This is such a perfect way for me to learn or be reminded of strategies that I sometimes forget to incorporate in my own practice (like mantras)…I am very grateful to have a WEEKLY class rather than just a monthly, and I like the short time – it gives time to immerse yourself but is not “too daunting” for a weekend morning.
Thanks Annie for your keen analysis – very helpful to hear indeed!! You have definitely been fully involved…
So glad the format and timing suits you…Looking forward to further sessions together!
I agree on the weekly class as well. It’s hard to keep ones self motivated. A weekly class keeps people coming back and in a schedule. Thank you Satyam for all you do to keep our mind, body and spirit healthy.
Establishing a meditation practice can be challenging – period. So for some, shorter more frequent sessions are helpful, while others appreciate a longer practice. Both approaches certainly have their plus points.
In college, a friend once told me that, “The good thing about going for a run is that after doing it, you never regret it.”
His point is well taken. Doing a good work is inherently satisfying. And that same theorem applies to meditation. Whether short or long, whatever one’s life schedule affords, there is an inherent benefit – and a permanent deposit in one’s “account.”
Many thanks Teresa for circling back and adding to the discussion…