Importance of sangha (community)

Recent interactions have really made me understand the important of sangha or community.

Our small yoga community started calling ourselves Global Zen during covid as there were many from all parts of the world practising together on zoom, and of course, Betsy who teaches and shares from California.

Slowly, members started to call ourselves sangha, and many derive support, fellowship from others in the community.

The yoga practice is one which moves from external practice to an internal practice; and sometimes with it, a group practice to an individualised practice. In that effort to go deeper on this pathless goal, sometimes one forgets about the community/ sangha.

Also in one’s busy-ness as Covid restrictions lift, other priorities take over, or when one struggles with personal as well as familial or work problems, the community practice now becomes less and less frequent.

Then why did Buddha consider Sangha to be one of the 3 Refuges, along with the Buddha and Dharma (teachings). Why do the Christians have fellowship, bible study, the Islamics have Ummah? If the practice was individual and quiet.

Sangha as a support

Cos as a group, it gives a sense of community to study, practise and support each other in the spiritual journey.

One member shared:

‘During one of the most challenging times of my life, I came to realize the true power and gift of a sangha. Knowing that the sangha is one of the gems is one thing, but experiencing its gift firsthand has deepened my appreciation for the role it plays in providing strength and solace during difficult periods. The support of a sangha, a community of like-minded individuals, proved invaluable in lifting me out of the darkness. It was in these moments that I understood the profound importance of having a supportive community around.’

Another member;

‘Global Zen Sangha holds a special place in my heart, as it is where I found strength, discipline, and a deep connection to my yoga practice.

My time with the sangha has shown me the value of shared experiences and collective growth.

It has been a space where I have felt the power of belonging. Amidst covid, it provided me with moments of solace and reflection, reminding me that even in an individual journey, the presence of a supportive community makes all the difference.’

Sangha as a positive environment

Another member shared:

‘I don’t want to bring negative energy to the group’

When in doubt, practice. Remember how you came to class feeling down, and leave feeling rejuvenated and revitalised?

As a sangha, though we all walk alone on this spiritual path, we sometimes walk side by side for part of the journey. When i feel tired, my spiritual friend lifts me up and vice versa.

No good. No bad. Equanimity.

Sangha as a mirror

The overarching energy is mindful and aware; supportive and safe; compassionate and wise. There is no demand for perfection, but a loving expectation of growth.

Sangha as a ground for transformation

The bigger our hearts, the easier it is to give ourselves and others grace. The sangha is a playground in which we might practice seeing all beings as potential teachers, just as they are. The sangha is a ground for transformation.

My own perspective:

Im conditioned by my experiences to be pragmatic , being a previous clinician scientist .

Intuitively, I have absolute faith and trust in the yoga practice, the teachings. the Buddha, the Dharma and the Sangha. I surrender to everything Universe throws at me. And try to meet all with equanimity. I might fall sometimes, lose it. But being flawed as a human being, i can only be responsible for my intentions, my actions and my unshakable faith 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻

What are your experiences ?

Picture of Potala Palace, Tibet in winter