Wednesday 17 September 2014

Peace and meditation in the city

You can't deny the hectic pace of life these days. We live in the suburbs of a major city and it's difficult to escape the general hum of noise that surrounds us from cars, buses, trams, distant house alarms and one of the emergency services rushing to their next job. As part of our quest to seek out new things my daughter and I went in search of a different culture in order seek some tranquillity.

In the city is a Buddhist centre. Behind a high wall and a long drive is the community's centre. Housed in old hall it provides classes for people seeking 'Enlightenment' but also for those wishing to practise meditation, Yoga and Tai Chi. Whilst Buddhism is an ancient religion this is very much a place for anyone seeking refuge from the modern world. There are many schools of Buddhism but the one practised here is brings together all the core elements to make them relevant to life in the 21st century.

If you go on a tour you find out about the Three Jewels of Buddhism which are The Buddha, The Dharma and The Sangha. These represent the ultimate potential for human growth, the teaching of Buddha and the Buddhist community. There is also an opportunity to visit and learn about a Buddhist shrine. Out of respect we didn't take any photographs inside but we did take some in their gardens.

The gardens have some very traditional English aspects to them. The sweet scent of honeysuckle fills the air and gives a calming presence. There are seats situated opposite each other either for silent meditation, discussion or just sitting. Only the bunting wafting gently in the breeze gives a hint that there is something more to this city hideaway.

What new things have you done this week? Have you explored any new cultures recently?

This is a post for #newthings in conjunction with the CSMA Club.




17 comments:

  1. That sounds really interesting - I'd love to travel more now that the kids are a little bit older x x

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  2. This sounds a really good idea - I think my daughter and I could do with a bit of calm sometimes too. (not to mention my son!)

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  3. I definitely need some calmness away from London x

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  4. With my big girl, we've been experimenting with henna tattoos for the first time. Lots of fun.

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  5. this looks heavenly! I love exploring new cultures and visiting places. x

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  6. looks blissful - such a calm little spot

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  7. Those gardens look really peaceful - a haven amongst the city hustle bustle.

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  8. I haven't ever been to a Buddhist center but and intrigued to find one locally now. Looks very peaceful.

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  9. What an interesting find. It definitely looks lovely and peaceful - the perfect retreat.

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  10. Meditation is so calming, and the right surroundings can enhance the experience.

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  11. Looks like a calm haven. We could all do with one of those from time to time.

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  12. I am still exploring the Amazonic Kichwa culture, there is so much to learn and see and to know. But there are other indigenous cultures here also that I would like to have the opportunity to explore.

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  13. Oh I adore buddhism and always mean to find out more. I was so at home when visiting temples in 2004 in Japan. Your photos are beautiful xx

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  14. We have a Buddhist centre near us, I really should go back, it's been a while. I love meditation

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  15. fascinating, how good to get out and do something different, we should do this more

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  16. We're planning on trying something new for us...We're going to be exploring a different culture every month with the girls to broaden their knowledge. We're going to be making food from different countries and using the internet and the library for research. Our first country is going to be China as their older brother teaches English out there and is marrying a Chinese girl later this year so we're going to be researching Chinese weddings in particular :)

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