Meditation Practice & Support @ St. James the Less

Welcome to year 15 of our practice together!

All teachers agree: The key to a successful meditation practice is regular practice. Therefore this meetup is looking for practitioners who are willing to make a dedicated effort to sit together weekly in order to fully realize the benefits of group practice.

All levels and schools of thought are welcome. Meet like-minded individuals while expanding your own personal practice in a non-competitive and supportive environment. Feel free to join us for a sitting and experience increased self awareness and inner peace by way of your journey inward.

LOCATION The Episcopal Church of St. James the Less is located at 550 Sunset Ridge Road in Northfield, IL (detailed directions above).

It is our goal to make all attendees feel safe, comfortable and at ease.

FYI: Chairs will be available for those who prefer to use them. For those who choose to sit on the floor please bring your own; meditation cushion, bench, pillow, yoga mat or zafu cushion if you prefer.

GENERAL FORMAT:
6:50 - 7:05 Welcome
7:05 - 7:20 Seated centering practice
7:20 - 7:35 Mindful movement (Qigong, walking meditation, etc.)
7:35 - 8:00 Samatha/Vipassana meditation
8:00 - 8:10 Contemplative offering
8:10 - 8:30 Optional group sharing/discussion

TODAY'S EVENT HOST: Mark Z. (Asoka)
While attempting to assist his son in overcoming a panic disorder, he reconnected with the practice in 2008. A year later he joined the Chicago Weekly Sitting Meditation Group to gain support with that process. The benefits and support he received from the group were life changing. He was eventually invited to become a Co-organizer. He has maintained a daily meditation and mindfulness practice ever since. That experience furthered his growth and ultimately inspired him to launch and organize this group in January of 2011. He has been formally trained by Buddhist Monks, Nuns and Lay Teachers in the practices of Samatha / Vipassana, Metta and walking meditation. He is also a Co-organizer of Inner Balance Meditation as well as a Meditation and Mindfulness instructor for the Arlington Heights Park District. The practice has touched his heart deeply.

COST: A voluntary donation to help offset expenses would be most appreciated but is by no means expected. May your practice of Dana (Generosity) bring you much Mudita (Altruistic Joy)!

If you have any questions about this particular sitting or our meditation community in general, please feel free to contact us. We are looking forward to sitting in practice and sharing energy in the present moment with all who choose to attend.

With Metta, Mark and Tony