Sitting MeditationWe generally include two-twenty minute sessions of sitting meditation at each sitting, with a period of walking meditation between. We begin each session by inviting three sounds of the bell, and end with a single bell. You are welcome to sit on a cushion or on a chair. Our sangha has meditation cushions for practitioners to use at the Jamaica Plain and Beacon Hill sittings, but you are welcome to bring your own cushion or bench if you prefer. Chairs are available at all locations.
Sitting meditation is like returning home to give full attention to and care for our self. Like the peaceful image of the Buddha on the altar, we too can radiate peace and stability. We sit upright with dignity, and return to our breathing. We bring our full attention to what is within and around us. We let our mind become spacious and our heart soft and kind. If our legs or feet fall asleep or begin to hurt during the sitting, we are free to adjust our position quietly. We can maintain our concentration by following our breathing and slowly, and attentively change our posture. (From How to Enjoy Your Visit to Plum Village) For more guidance in sitting meditation, see these books by Thich Nhat Hanh:
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