Today we had our second meeting, which was also fruitful. As we waited for group members to arrive, we discussed our experiences of the past week, and in our pasts, with mindfulness and meditation techniques. We spoke about posture, and different ways of 'sitting' (or kneeling, or standing...) during mindfulness practice. Although we don't have a 'bench' yet, everyone had a chance to have a go at sitting on a round cushion called a zafu, commonly used for cross-legged positions. A couple of stacks of textbooks were also put to good use! After our discussion, which was wide-ranging, we had a very short 'sit'.
It did strike me today that it really is going to be necessary that we make a start on the mindfulness practice right away, preferably by 1:20pm, to allow time for all of the benefits we are seeking. We could leave space for anyone who is slightly late so that they could join in as soon as they arrive. If we begin with the practice, we should still have plenty of time to discuss our experiences over lunch, and perhaps introduce new topics along the way. I'd be really happy to hear others' suggestions on this slight rearrangement. I'd also be interested in hearing from the group as to whether members would like a more guided practice, or if the bells are sufficient, or indeed, if they'd prefer no sound at all because they'd prefer to pursue their own choice of mindfulness technique? Let me know in any way that's convenient.
A final point of business: I will be away next Thursday, but it was agreed by those present today that they intended to meet in Room 202 at 1:15pm as usual. Wish I could be there!
