Mindfulness As A Community Practice
One of the losses modern society feels most keenly is that of a sense of community. We tend to imagine that there once existed a degree of neighbourliness which had been replaced by ruthless anonymity, a state where people pursue contact with one another for restricted, individualistic ends: for financial gain, social advancement or romantic love. Alain De Botton
Meditation is a community based practice. Many people who have been meditating for a while keep repeating this common refrain: Group support and community can help. One of the things meditation offers in a real and deep connection to other humans. Once we are in the communion with others and feel safe, we have an emotional shift. We can articulate better our experience, we get closer to people.
Here are some benefits of meditating in a group setting:
- Feedback Is Available
Meditation groups often include practitioners of varying levels. If you’re new to meditation, you might find that other members of your group can help clear up any confusion you may have over different types of meditation, help you find answers addressing difficulties with practice, and provide feedback regarding experiences that arise during the meditation process.
- You Are Not Alone
Many people feel alone and isolated, trapped in their own psychological self. It’s tough being a human alone. Meditating with others provides an experiential reference point of profound connection with others.
- A Different Kind Of Intimacy
Silence becomes something different when you meditate with others. In the wordless silence, the space between you and your fellow meditators comes alive. Communication and intimacy happens more naturally in the silence that accompanies meditation.
To me, sangha is a central support in meditation practice. Sangha is a community outside the realm of our work life and our everyday life, a place where we refrain from competition and one-upping each other. It’s also an opportunity to put the brakes on people-pleasing behaviours. Rather, we tell each other the truth of our experience. Pema Chödrön
For 5 years we’ve been running weekly drop in Mindfulness classes in Zurich. Come and celebrate 5 Fabulous Years of Urban Mindfulness Meditation Zurich with us.
On the 8th of November, we will organize a cozy apero event in Enge Zurich, in the same location where we run the sessions. Newcomers are also welcome to this event so you can meet our community members. Register here
