108 Bells - Winter Solstice is Celebrated
The sound of the bell is one of the most enriching, heartening sounds for me. Wherever I am, whatever I am doing, it pauses all conditions and brings me immediately back to my True Home, that inner source of stillness deep within myself. There I am safe, secure, and fully One. All else is released and I am happy, grounded, joyful, and grateful for my life....all with one sound of the bell.
In my practice tradition, we "invite" the bell. We do not use the word "strike" as it sends a message of violence. "Invite" is something very respectful and peaceful. Before the bell in invited, a gatha is silently said:
My body, speech, and mind in perfect oneness.
I send my heart along with the sound of the bell.
May the hearer awaken from forgetfulness
and transcend all anxiety and sorrow.
108 Bells - Inviting the Arrival of Winter.
Winter is the season of moving inward, of going deep inside to rest and renew. It's a time to nourish our souls and the perfection that we are. As we lead into winter, it's important to release anything that will not serve this important nourishment so that we can be a clear vessel, ready to receive the energetic gifts of spring when they arrive. During our time together, we'll be guided to gently come into awareness of this precious time or gentle release, inviting those aspects of ourselves that we wish to nurture to come forth. They will be penetrated deeply with the energy of 108 sounds of the bell.
With a smile, be warned: this can be very moving and transformative. After our meditation, tea and light snacks will be provided as well as an opportunity to share about our experience. Gratitude to all who participate and bless the space with their presence.
Why 108?
108 is a number referring to spiritual completion. It is considered sacred in many Eastern religions and traditions, such as Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, Sikhism and connected to yoga and dharma based practices. For quick reference on the number 108, see Here and Here.
In my practice tradition, we "invite" the bell. We do not use the word "strike" as it sends a message of violence. "Invite" is something very respectful and peaceful. Before the bell in invited, a gatha is silently said:
My body, speech, and mind in perfect oneness.
I send my heart along with the sound of the bell.
May the hearer awaken from forgetfulness
and transcend all anxiety and sorrow.
108 Bells - Inviting the Arrival of Winter.
Winter is the season of moving inward, of going deep inside to rest and renew. It's a time to nourish our souls and the perfection that we are. As we lead into winter, it's important to release anything that will not serve this important nourishment so that we can be a clear vessel, ready to receive the energetic gifts of spring when they arrive. During our time together, we'll be guided to gently come into awareness of this precious time or gentle release, inviting those aspects of ourselves that we wish to nurture to come forth. They will be penetrated deeply with the energy of 108 sounds of the bell.
With a smile, be warned: this can be very moving and transformative. After our meditation, tea and light snacks will be provided as well as an opportunity to share about our experience. Gratitude to all who participate and bless the space with their presence.
Why 108?
108 is a number referring to spiritual completion. It is considered sacred in many Eastern religions and traditions, such as Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, Sikhism and connected to yoga and dharma based practices. For quick reference on the number 108, see Here and Here.
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Thursday December 21, 6:00 - 7:30 pm
Location: 23 Broadway St, Concord, NH in back barn unless otherwise noted Suggested Donation $10-$20 Closed-water bottles OK. The barn has heat but a good idea to dress comfortably and in layers anyways. Please bring a mediation cushion if you have one as our supply is limited. If not, no worries. Charis are provided. Also a cozy blanket or shawl is also suggested. A Few Bells Have Been Invited: |
GET CENTERED ~ FIND PEACE ~ LOVE SELF
