Mindfulness in a more spiritual context: Plum Village UK Open Waves Sangha

The mindfulness we teach is entirely secular but since most religions have a contemplative tradition, it is compatible with religious beliefs and spirituality.  That compatibility is especially strong with the teachings of Thich Nhat Hanh, a global spiritual leader, poet and peace activist revered around the world for his pioneering teachings on mindfulness, global ethics and peace.  Thich Nhat Hanh’s philosophy has had a significant impact on secular mindfulness across the world.

For those who seek to place their mindfulness practice into a more specifically spiritual context a group of practitioners on Pembrokeshire have come together to create their own community – or sangha – to explore Thich Nhat Hanh’s teachings in more depth.

The gatherings include mindfulness in a range of forms including guided meditation, silent meditation, mindful walking inside and outdoors, mindful reading and listening deeply and sharing from personal experience.

Elizabeth Daniels, founder of the Open Waves Sangha says:

“We hold a weekly online meeting and also a physical sangha every week where we practice together.  Our aim is to help grow peace and happiness and transform suffering in ourselves and the world through understanding and compassion.

“We also organise weekly Nordic Walking sessions for the community with two trained leaders from our group which is a lovely opportunity to explore the natural world and develop our sense of community.  For anyone who doesn’t feel quite so active we hold a weekly coffee morning get together in local café.

“We also hold regular days of mindfulness and an annual two day retreat which is open to all.  Our last retreat, held in the beautiful Education Centre at St David’s Cathedral, was called Touching Mother Earth – looking deeply at our Celtic Spiritual Ancestors through the eyes of Zen Buddhism.

“Our aspiration is to seed other Sanghas throughout Wales and develop a unique Welsh identity to echo the many thriving Sanghas in Ireland, Scotland and England.

“We recognise the contemplative tradition that is part of many spiritual organisations, and we have connections with Quakers, the Worldwide community of Christian meditation and other local Buddhist groups”

Sangha members say:

‘I joined the Open Waves Sangha almost three years ago and have become actively involved in both the online and physical Sanghas and accompanying retreats. I have also helped to initiate other activities such as Nordic Walking.  For me I am following a spiritual path and have experienced a twofold benefit from Sangha membership. Firstly, the Sangha has supported me through some difficult moments in my life. Secondly, and more importantly, the opportunity to participate and help others is of immeasurable benefit for my own development and I am grateful to Elizabeth for her encouraging approach to myself and other Sangha members.’

‘For me it is a unique place where I can share ideas, concerns and myself safe in the knowledge that I will be listened to and without judgement, and learn from others. I feel privileged to be a part of the Sangha.