WHAT IS A MINDJAM?

Mindjams are inclusive meditation circles to share contemplative practices and socialise, a space for experimentation & finding balance.

All participants are welcome to suggest a practice, or to contribute with guiding if confident.

We explore broadening our experience in body&mind awareness. There is no set style - each session is a unique response to the group.

The space holder will contain your individual experience safely, all is met with great respect.

This is not a 'traditional' meditation group, please read the longer explanation below to know what to expect.

SCHEDULE

( For current group meeting times please see here: https://app.simplenote.com/publish/rfSLvM )

WELCOME TO THE GROUP

You are invited to join a network of people interested in meditation and embodied mindfulness, to meet and explore practices using body, breath and mind. Notifications are made via a WhatsApp group.

https://chat.whatsapp.com/C8k6sV2VsBA1f6uei6fDHA

WHAT TO EXPECT

Meeting circles called ‘MindJams’ are arranged to meditate together, share practices, learn techniques and socialise.

MindJams are sessions for experimenting and sharing experiences of contemplative and spiritual cultivation. There is no set dogma or preference for any one teacher or path, to encourage wider participation and learning.

-They are intended as a space to meet community, to find the unexpected and also return to basics. They should be flexible and appropriate to the participants and not act as a clique for experienced practitioners only.

-MindJams are not equivalent to a regular walk-in meditation class where any session is likely to be totally suitable for first timers. However, each session can be tailored by the host to be suitable for the participants, including beginners.

-The sessions are usually broken up into shorter sections to give plenty of space for changing posture, mindful movement, checking in and sharing as a group - but also allowing a quiet exit if you need. Some sessions may be made purposefully challenging and not suitable for all, but this should be communicated in advance.

MindJams are guided or organised by anyone of the group who is able and willing, rather than a single person or qualified teacher.

-Participants are invited to contribute and share their personal practice with the circle. It is a place for both experimentation and finding balance.

-Anyone is welcome to guide a part of the session (a great place to try for the first time), play music, present recorded audio of other teachers or anything you think suitable.

-You may also suggest a theme, request a practice or ask a question to be explored by the group. The principle guide or host has responsibility to continue to hold space and respond appropriately to the need of the group.

-If you are interested in contributing a guided practice, please let the host know in advance.

MindJams are intended to be inclusive and welcoming spaces for all

-A host or guide will always respond to the current ability of the group. Occasional Mindjams are organised to be inclusive for all levels of experience, where the meditation periods are suitable for beginners, shorter and more closely guided. Stillness is interspersed with more active breath and body practices. There may be more social or sharing time.

-Mental health and trauma awareness, with appropriate sensitive alterations to mindfulness practice should be maintained by the guides or host, and stated when not possible - especially to new practitioners. You may decline to participate in any practice not safe for you, and the guide or host may avoid/veto any practices if they are concerned about the outcome. Please speak to the guide if this is ever a concern for you, or if you need to know more of what to expect in advance.

-For those unaccustomed to longer practice periods or group settings: Especially with new practices, please be aware that everyone will have a unique meditation experience. Some may face challenge one time whilst another finds tranquility. Be assured that the guide and group will contain your experience safely, and that if you find yourself in difficulty you will be met with great care and respect by all. You are always welcome to speak with the guide if you feel you need support.

PRACTICAL NOTES

-In general sessions are freely offered on Dana (generosity). Voluntary contributions are welcomed if you are in a position to support financially, as this enables the group and teachings to continue. However, Dana comes in all forms - and your presence and continued practice in sangha (community) is highly valued. 🙏🧘🏼‍♀️🙇🏼‍♂️

-Where sessions are organised using another venue's booking system, there may be a set fee. If you are in financial difficulty but would like to attend, please reach out to me directly.

-When not held elsewhere, they are located in my quiet garden studio at:

3 Henley Cottages Box SN138BY

-Chairs or floor cushions available.

-Immediate on street parking is available but limited. The site requires ambulatory access and navigation of a garden path.

Please see the following for directions and access notes.

https://app.simplenote.com/publish/mHlVyD

ORGANISATION & CONTACT

Currently MindJams are organised via a WhatsApp group chat. If you are interested to come along please follow the link below. If you do not use WhatsApp please get in touch directly.

Join WhatsApp group https://chat.whatsapp.com/C8k6sV2VsBA1f6uei6fDHA

For contact details - Return to Monkey.Balancing.Buddha. monkeybalancingbuddha.co.uk