Is there anybody there? : Cathy Salah

At our most recent sangha here in Bristol, we wondered whether other groups were continuing to meet on a regular basis, and if so, how they used their time. We agreed that we would let you know what WE did, and see what reponse there was.

We are fortunate in this area in that we have a considerable number of teachers, both newly qualified and more experienced; no one has to travel more than about twenty miles to get here, although the traffic congestion in this part of the world can sometimes mean it feels like fifty! Most of us live within Bristol itself; however, because some have “day” jobs, finding a day and time that suits everyone can be difficult. We have had as few as four, and as many as ten attending.

We have tried Fridays 1 till 3pm and Sundays 11 till 1.00pm, and are planning to revert to Sundays. Meetings take place four times a year, Spring, Summer, Autumn and Winter, usually at Marian’s house. She is located centrally in Bristol (and also has gently encouraged us over the years to keep going) Our annual highlight is a “bring to share” lunch in the Summer, a mixture of business and pleasure at Sue’s lovely converted barn in Somerset (Hello magazine eat your heart out!) This is when we fix the dates for the coming year, and Marian undertakes to let everyone know,

Sometimes we know what we are discussing in advance, and sometimes we don’t!
Over the past ten years we have covered topics such as back care, pregnancy, M.E, twists, and hyperventilation. We use some sessions for chanting, and also to share problems we may have with classes or students. In our early days, we took it in turns to organize regular workshops for teachers and students. This gave us invaluable experience and confidence .

During the past two years, when there have been considerable changes in the organisation, and some fears for its future, coming together has enabled us to have full and frank discussions, and lessened the feelings of isolation that some of us had. When a training course finishes, the sangha has proved to be hugely supportive.

If anyone finds themselves in the area on 11th Feb, 13th May, or 10th August, they would be very welcome. Just let Marian Miles know.

Cathy Salah