cODE OF CONDUCT
Safety in Community
In order to harbor a safe-space for all practitioners and uphold an environment built on compassion, understanding, and true connection, we have arranged a Code of Conduct that all members are asked to follow when interacting with the sangha. These behavioral guidelines are in place to create an air of safety and responsibility.
https://orderofinterbeing.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Mindful-Approaches.pdf
While practicing with the sangha, we observe the Five Mindfulness Trainings (whether you have taken them formally or not).
We will bring our Beginner's Mind to the sangha, allowing openness and space to learn from each other without judgement or discrimination.
Practicing healthy boundaries, the sangha is not an environment to encroach on others space by making suggestive comments or discussing ones private business. We will practice bringing awareness to all dynamics between members and right appropriateness.
While we offer the space to speak from ones heart and give support, we are not the sangha's psychological or medical professionals. Please do not use the sangha as a place to vent, we must work together to create a harmonious atmosphere and act skillfully as a whole.
Dharma Sharing Guidelines
Dharma Sharing is the practice of sharing from our hearts into a silent, open and non-judgmental space. Our sharing gives us the opportunity to better understand each other, ourselves, and water a collective insight without the need to react. We share guidelines in order to create a conducive environment for everyone's wellbeing and to water the seeds of deep listening and compassionate speech.
This is an opportunity to share from our heart--our joys, obstacles, and questions--not from an intellectual or philosophical mind space.
What is shared in the circle should remain in the circle to create an air of confidentiality. Please do not talk about others sharing without explicit permission.
Practice Deep Listening when one is speaking to allow them the floor without interruption or reaction. We are determined to breathe with the emotions that may arise within us.
Avoid giving advice or constructive criticism, even if requested. Share from your own experiences while using "I" instead of "You".
In order to allow everyone the space to share, be mindful of how long you are sharing for and to refrain from sharing multiple times if others have not yet had the chance.
Do not engage in cross talk, what is shared is directed into the circle, not at any sole individual(s).
To share, bow into the circle (or any other visual indicator) to inform the group and then bow out once finished. You may wish to share your name while bowing in.
Sharing is optional, not obligated and up to ones own comfort level. Your presence is enough!
Embrace the silence. Between each share, allow space for at least three breathes. If no one wishes to share, enjoy the silence and the facilitator may offer a new prompt.
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