Welcome
Welcome to the Shining Light Men's Project, thanks for joining us! We'd like to welcome you by offering some introductory tips for participating in our forum. Meetings are 75 minutes and address a variety of topics. While there is a sequence to the topics, you may join at any time.
Mindfulness Exercises
Meetings begin with mindfulness techniques and exercises initiated by a bell. We sit in silence for 10 to 25 minutes focusing on our breathing and posture. Some meditations may be guided. No experience is necessary for these simple exercises, but with practice you will find improved attention and calm. MINDFULNESS consists of several key elements:
• pay attention
• remain in the present moment
• accept yourself (think of yourself as a good friend)
• focus on your breathing
These exercises help us become centered and calm at the start of a meeting, and help us transition back to our daily lives at the end.
Readings
Please review the recommended readings before each session, since these are the sources for discussion and key questions in the meetings. The readings are available on the Meetings page at this website. Note that if you registered through our Meetup page, you will need to RSVP to each Meetup session, whereas the reading materials will always be available on the website.
A Few Words About Rules
A few rules you should know: (1) group discussions are confidential, please avoid identifying anyone by name except during the meetings, (2) please avoid cross-talking (commenting on what another member has said), (3) listen with respect, wait until another person is finished before speaking, (4) speak concisely, be mindful that others may be waiting to speak, (5) talk about your own experiences and points of view ("I" statements are preferred).