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Workshops on Sept. 6 to cover history, practice and benefits of meditation : WCSU to present ‘Meditation: Multicultural Perspectives’ program

DANBURY, CONN. — Western Connecticut State University will present workshops on the history, methods and health benefits of different forms of meditation practiced in diverse cultures in a program on Wednesday, Sept. 6, in the Ballroom of the Campus Center on the university’s Westside campus, 43 Lake Ave. Extension in Danbury.

The program, “Meditation: Multicultural Perspectives,” will run from 5 to 8:30 p.m. A total of nine workshops will be offered in a series of three 45-minute sessions, with participants selecting one of three workshops offered during each session. Admission will be free and the public is invited to attend. Sponsors for the event include the WCSU Office of Intercultural Affairs; the Center for Compassion, Creativity and Innovation; and the Institute for Holistic Health Studies.

In addition to providing cultural and historical insights into the various forms of practicing meditation around the world, the workshops are designed to promote a deeper understanding of the whole-person approach to wellness. Participants will learn about the physical, mental, emotional, social, intellectual and spiritual components of this holistic approach.

Workshops during the first session from 5:15 to 6 p.m. will include:

  • “The Wisdom in Walking,” presented by IHHS Director Christel Autuori. This experience in walking meditation will employ an everyday activity to reconnect body, mind, spirit and Earth.
  • “Salutation Meditation,” presented by Lara Ward, director of Lotus Gardens Yoga. Gentle yoga postures will be used to prepare the body and mind for simple breathing techniques and stillness.
  • “Mantras as a Meditation Tool,” presented by Rebecca Schoenewolf. This interactive workshop will explore how to use mantras in meditation and for personal healing.

Workshops during the second session from 6:15 to 7 p.m. will include:

  • “Crystal Bowl Meditation,” presented by Barrie Sachs. Participants on mats and blankets will be surrounded by crystal singing bowls designed to promote inner peace and healing.
  • “Meet Your Power Animal: Shamanic Journey Meditation,” presented by Deana Paqua. The workshop will teach a simple form of core shamanic journey meditation to raise awareness of the participant’s “power animal” and find guidance, healing and wisdom from the animal kingdom.
  • “Energy-Based Meditations,” presented by Jesse Rovero. The workshop will provide a simple guided meditation with hand placements and movements, made while seated, including the Breathing Mudras and Sahaja Yoga forms of meditation.

Workshops during the third session from 7:15 to 8 p.m. will include:

  • “Hear Yourself: Your Inner Music,” presented by Stephen Dydo. Participants will learn how to engage with music as a form of meditation, both in playing an instrument and in listening to music, to promote inner healing, self-awareness, spiritual growth and communication.
  • “Moving Mindfulness and Meditation,” presented by Linda Peck. Participants will move through and integrate various gestures in sensory modalities such as mime, tai chi and laban that simultaneously promote relaxation and concentration to remain present, yet detached in the moment.
  • “Meditation for Your Life,” presented by Valerie Rich. This workshop will use gentle movements, music and sensory perceptions to explore the path to effortless meditation. where the practitioner connects deeply with the senses while appreciating the natural rhythms of the mind.

For more information, contact the Center for Compassion, Creativity and Innovation at compassion@wcsu.edu or the Office of University Relations at (203) 837-8486.

 

 

Western Connecticut State University offers outstanding faculty in a range of quality academic programs. Our diverse university community provides students an enriching and supportive environment that takes advantage of the unique cultural offerings of Western Connecticut and New York. Our vision: To be an affordable public university with the characteristics of New England’s best small private universities.