Mind - Your Friend or Your Enemy - Stafford

We always ask people the reason for coming to meditation and most people say they want to 'calm the mind' or stop the 'mind chatter' or stop the noise. Meditation does help to calm the mind for sure. However once we start to understand the nature of the mind and how our actions, our external surroundings, our mind and our happiness are interconnected then we can make conscious decisions and choices for a happier and peaceful life.

The ancient yoga scripture Bhagavad Gita states,

"A man must elevate himself by his own mind, not degrade himself...For him who has conquered the mind, the mind is the best of friends; but for one who has failed to do so, his very mind will be the greatest enemy. " , Ch 6.5-6

It further goes on to describe, the mind as restless, turbulent, obstinate and very strong.. and to subdue it can seem to be more difficult than controlling the wind.

If we want to live a life of purpose, peace and fulfilment then we must learn to step away from the mind and learn to control it. In fact, to be successful in any endeavour, there is a need to have a control over the mind, emotions and to cultivate self discipline and restraint.

So how do we do it? Where do we start?

We will share it as part of our wisdom segment in our meditation evening.

What to expect:

- Gauranga Breathing to sooth the mind and relax the body
- Kirtan meditation - group meditation with live music, yoga mantras and audience participation

- Wisdom talk - Mind : Your Best Friend or Your Enemy

- Sweet & Savoury refreshment and spiced chai

Donation based event. Booking helpful for catering purposes.