Relational Mindfullness with Deborah Eden Tull

Location: Quietude, 1130 Montreat Rd, Black Mountain, NC
Date/Time: First Thursdays; Apr - Dec;
* We will not meet in July/September
With Deborah Eden Tull.

Relational Mindfulness is about healing the myth of separation through our relationship with self, one another, and our planet. It teaches 9 timeless principles for awakening through the beautiful, dynamic, and complex field of human relationship. The practice of Relational Mindfulness keeps us honest by showing us when and where it is difficult to remain fully present when engaging with others. Sitting alone on a meditation cushion is a wholly different exercise than engaging socially, at work, in conflict, or romance.

Or is it?

Just as the breath provides an anchor when we sit, deep listening - within and out - can be our anchor in social interactions. Meditation is - in essence - the practice of listening to life as it unfolds moment by moment.

Intimacy begins with our willingness to see clearly - beyond the myth of separation. We have to learn how to “be with” the pretty and not-so-pretty aspects of ourselves without needing to, fix, solve, or change anything. In this way the ground of being or shared presence becomes the gateway to personal and collective healing.

The principles of Relational Mindfulness are: Intention, The Sacred Pause, Deep Listening, Mindful Inquiry & Clear Seeing, Turning Towards Rather Than Away, Taking Responsibility, Not Taking Personally, Transparency, and Compassionate Action.

Join us for a monthly sangha gathering. We will focus on one principle each month. Our gatherings will include meditation, relational mindfulness practice in pairs or small groups, guided inquiry, and facilitated dharma discussion. All are welcome.

Details about Eden's book: Relational Mindfulness, a handbook for deepening our connection with ourselves, each other, and the planet.

Other Details
Access to community and wisdom should be available to everyone, so all sangha events are offered for free. Following ancient buddhist practice, we collect danā. Danā is a Pali word that denotes a special kind of giving. It means “generosity” or “giving freely. Danā is a practice of a mutual exchange of generosity and abundance. It develops lovingkindness and compassion, deepens awareness of our interconnectedness and encourages non-attachment. If this kind of giving is available to you, there will be a donation box at this event. Donations will go to support our valued teacher. Any amount is welcome. One suggested amount is $15.

Quietude is a micro-retreat center dedicated to the cultivation of mindfulness and the inner life. It provides a container for awareness, introspection, and personal development. Quietude is rooted in the understanding that we all benefit from periodically taking time out from our day-to-day routines and responsibilities.