The Present Moment Sangha studies and practices the teachings of the Vietnamese Zen Buddhist Master, Thich Nhat Hanh. We share the belief that Thich Nhat Hanh offers teachings and a practice that can improve our personal lives, the community and the nation. Our name is drawn from one of the fourteen mindfulness trainings as given below.
Dwelling happily in the present moment.
Aware that life is available only in the present moment and that it is possible to live happily in the here and now; I am committed to training myself to live deeply each moment of daily life. I will try not to lose myself in dispersion or be carried away by regrets about the past, worries about the future, or craving, anger or jealousy in the present. I will practise mindful breathing to come back to what is happening in the present moment. I am determined to learn the art of mindful living by touching the wondrous, refreshing and healing elements that are inside and around me, and by nourishing seeds of joy, peace, love and understanding in myself, thus facilitating the work of transformation and healing in my consciousness.
We are currently located in Alphington and meet every Sunday. Our practice begins with a 25 minute meditation, usually silent but sometimes incorporates some guided meditation. This is followed by a short walking meditation then another 25 minute silent sitting meditation. At present we then read and reflect on Thich Nhat Hanh's Five Mindfulness Trainings and then, with a lovely cup of refreshing tea, have a general discussion about his work and its application to our lives.
Once a month we have a day of mindfulness at the same venue. The general format for these days is listed below.
In line with Buddhist tradition there is no charge for these gatherings but we appreciate a donation for the Alphington Community Centre to cover costs.
WEEKLY MEETING
Where
Alphington Community Centre in
When
Sunday 4.30 - 6.30 (If at all possible please arrive in time to be settled and start meditation by 4.30pm. Centre will be open at 4.15pm
Access
Train: Alphington Station . It is on the Hurstbridge Line Bus: 508 (Dyson's) Moonee Ponds to Alphington Station, Stop No. 45 Melway Ref: 31 C10
DAY OF MINDFULNESS
9.45am Arrive and settle in
10am Sitting meditation, walking meditation, sitting meditation
11.00am Mindful morning tea
11.15am Dharma discussion
12.30pm Lunch
1.30pm Guided relaxation meditation
2.30pm Reflection on the day, and any other discussion about the Sangha
3.30pm Finish
For this day we all bring something to share for lunch.
If you'd like to join us for weekly meditation and/or the day of mindfulness, or have any questions then please email me at juliabyford@bigpond.com or you can ring me on 0414759670.
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