​      Stillness Groups

​​​​​​   Stillness Groups
Just sitting very quietly, erect and wakeful, we feel calmer and more at ease.  We understand things more clearly, and our appreciations and empathies grow.  Sitting with others greatly enhances this experience.  Stillness Groups provide regular opportunities to do just that

What to expect:  Sitting sessions last one hour.  Participants usually sit on chairs, though some prefer floor cushions.  They face one another in a circle.  A session is divided into three 15 minute periods of sitting.  After the first and second periods, participants walk single file clockwise once around the room to stretch their legs and refresh their wakefulness. One sitter, often the person who has organized the group, keeps time and signals the beginning and ending of periods with a bell or clap of hands.  Participants should feel free to lie down or leave early as desired.  Before and after the session participants have an opportunity to socialize or ask one another for help with difficulties they may be having with their practice.

Stillness Groups:

• Are non-religious, but often enrich the devotional experience of those who are religious
• Expect absolute confidentiality regarding anything said among participants.
  
• Do not require special abilities like sitting cross-legged, or shutting down thoughts.
  
• Are suitable for almost everyone, including sufferers of PTSD, bi-polar disorder, addictions, grief, anxiety …
  
• Do not involve trance states or other non-normal mental experiences or attempt to explain the experiences of participants through any belief system.
  
• Have no hierarchy of authority, although some participants volunteer to organize groups or keep time.
  
• Charge no fees and ask for no donations.
  
• Are not intended as formal, professionally led support groups.
  
• Have no expectations or requirements for those involved; no vows or commitments.