Body, Mind and Breath are One
On Sunday 7th July around 15 of us gathered at the peaceful, secluded and historic Friends Meeting House at Claverham to enjoy many and varied practices in the Plum Village tradition.
The Meeting House building dates from 1729, although the original Meeting House was built in the late 1600s. It felt very special to be practicing in a building where people have held the silence for nearly 300 years. The silence and stillness was punctuated by the odd creek of the original wood panelling which lines the meeting room. The wind in the trees and bird song outside connected us with the natural world. It felt very cosy to be held by the silence in such an historic place.
The day progressed at a very calm and peaceful pace with everyone contributing to the activities of the day. We enjoyed guided, silent, walking and eating meditation, as well as listening to a talk on the Exercises in Mindful Breathing by Thay. Silence was maintained until sounding the bell part way through our shared lunch. We also had an opportunity for deep relaxation, mindful movements and sharing from the heart. The day felt very nourishing and much tea was also drunk! A heartfelt thanks to all who participated - your energy helped create a wonderful atmosphere within which to enjoy our practice.
