Here are 10 tips for hosting a Mindful Gathering. Mindful gatherings are purposed to heal, enlighten, and evoke joy. They are gatherings that promote healthy eating & drinking, passionate & confidential conversations. The center piece should be an activity (JourneythroughJigsaw Puzzle 😉) that calms the mind and allows everyone to participate at their own pace.

1. Gather a small group of about 6 – 7 peers that are willing to share, listen, evaluate & create.
2. Smudge the meeting area with sage before the gathering, to clear the space of stagnant energy. Then, fill the space with fragrance from incense that will be burning throughout the evening.
3. Prepare the table with a mindful activity (JourneythroughJigsaw Puzzle 😉), herbal tea (rose or jasmine Oolong), vegan cookies (shortbread, gingersnaps, macarons), fruit salad (blueberry, kiwi, orange), and a raw nut mix.
4. Have Music playing in the background that can be heard just under the conversation. Instrumental music (jazz, classical, tribal) is recommended.
5. Ask all guest to put their cellphones on vibrate.
6. Set gathering rules. A confidentiality and privacy agreement should be made and honored by the group.
7. At the beginning of the gathering, have everyone write down on an index card a topic that they would like to discuss. Then, fold the cards, put them in a hat and randomly pick one. That will be the first topic of discussion or the discussion of the evening.
8. Encourage everyone works on the mindful activity, no matter how passionate the conversation gets. The finished project or progressed project will make the group feel accomplished at the end of the evening.
9. The best time to host a Mindful Gathering is between the hours of 3 pm and 8 pm. Let the gathering end with everyone wanting more. Enjoy yourself, be inspired, take that energy home and build on it.
10. Lastly, end the gathering with an affirmation of blessings, overcoming and unity.