Group Meditation

New to the art of sitting still? Looking to mix up your meditation routine? Then join us for a group meditation. Location Notice: When the weather is nice, we'll meditate at Maymont Park near the Hampton Street entrance. If the weather is too chilly or raining, we will meet at Synergy Yoga Studio in the West End. The location will be updated no later than 8am, so check the site before heading out if the weather is questionable. If you are new to meditating, come early (10:15) so we can give you some pointers. We play guided meditations from a variety of traditions, lasting around 30 - 40 minutes. After the meditation, we open up for discussion, which can be about the meditation we just had, something we've read, experiences during the week, our meditation practices, or anything that comes up. We usually conclude the discussion around 11:45 or so. What if I've never meditated before? This is a great place to start. Most people in the group are fairly new to meditating, so you'll be in good company. What should I bring? If the thought of sitting cross-legged for too long intimidates you, feel free to bring a chair. Or, you may want to bring a pillow and blanket to sit upon so you're more comfortable. What type of people will I be meditating with? Our group is very laid-back and open minded. We recognize that everyone is on their own individual path, so come as you are and you'll be welcomed. What if I want to meditate for less time? Come at whatever time you want, but please approach quietly and respect those around you. We'll usually end the meditation around 11:10. Do I have to sit still for 30-40 minutes? No. If you get uncomfortable, shift your position. You can choose to meditate however it works best for you as long as you respect those around you. How do I start meditating? Find a comfortable but alert seating position. It can help your alertness and breathing to be upright - a straight back with an open front. If you are in a chair, avoid leaning on the back rest. You may choose to close your eyes or keep them partially open with a soft focus. Notice your breathing. Listen to everything happening around you, like sounds of birds, the wind in the tree, children playing, a passing train. Be present, here and now. If you become distracted, non-judgmentally acknowledge the thought and refocus. Some people use an object like the breath as a focal point. For more meditation techniques, here are some resources: How to Meditate 20 Practical Tips for Quieting the Mind 7 Powerful Relaxation Techniques Directions To Hampton Street Entrance: From Interstates 64 & 95 • Take the Boulevard exit #78 (Route 161) • Go south on the Boulevard (Route 161) for two miles • Turn left at Cary Street and go 1/2 mile • Turn right at Meadow Street and go one mile • Turn right at Pennsylvania Avenue and go one block the parking lot ahead From the Powhite Parkway (Route 76) via the Downtown Expressway (I-195) (From Southside, Midlothian) • After the James River bridge toll plaza, get in the right lane • Bear right onto the Downtown Expressway (I-195 East) • Take the first exit, bear left onto Maplewood Avenue, and go one block • Turn left at S. Sheppard Street and go four blocks • Turn right at Cary Street (Route 147) and go east 1/2mile • Turn right at Meadow Street and go one mile • Turn right at Pennsylvania Avenue and go one block the parking lot ahead From the Downtown Expressway (I-195) South (Heading south from the West End) • Take the Cary Street/Grove Avenue exit ramp and bear left • At the first stoplight, turn left at Cary Street (Route 147) • Continue on Cary Street east for 1-1/2 miles • Turn right at Meadow Street and go one mile • Turn right at Pennsylvania Avenue and go one block the parking lot ahead From the Boulevard Bridge (North from Forest Hill, Westover Hills) • Once through the Boulevard Bridge toll plaza, get in the right lane • Take the first right at Shirley Lane and go one block (past the Children's Farm entrance) • Bear left (not the hard left onto Westover Road) and go one block into Byrd Park • Turn right at Shields Lake Drive and continue around the lake (past the Nature & Visitor Center on the right) • Turn right at Amelia Street and go one block • Turn right at Hampton Street and proceed to the parking lot entrance on the right From Downtown Richmond (Heading west from Ninth and Main Streets) • Take Main Street west about two miles • Turn left at Meadow Street and go one mile • Turn right at Pennsylvania Avenue and go one block to the parking lot ahead