What is Sati Pasala?

Sati Pasala is a learning programme that teaches children how to integrate mindfulness into their daily activities. Let us first see what mindfulness means.

Mindfulness became a buzz word in the West only in the 21 st century. But this is not newto Sri Lankans and many Asians.

Although the word Mindfulness encompasses a broad and deep meaning, we can describe it in simple language: mindfulness is focusing attention on the present mental or physical activity continuing from moment to moment, without coming to hasty judgments or decisions. Mindfulness also encompasses the mind’s ability to know when mind wonders away from the present moment activity.

This skill of paying attention to the present moment naturally enriches the quality of one’s life experiences. When one learns the skill of being mindful habitually, one develops another skill known as clear comprehension. Both these qualities of mind acting together produces amazing results. In Sri Lanka, our older generations loosely described this as “Sihiya.”

Almost all educators and psychologists agree that development of areas in the brain that control decision making, emotional well-being, and social integration are crucial in the young children.

However, learning mindfulness is not only for young children. Even older students could greatly benefit from learning mindfulness. Mindfulness improves concentration. So, learning this skill is most beneficial to older students who want to succeed in their academics. It goes without saying that adults who are driving their children to succeed cannot do so without being mindful.

Sati Pasala volunteers are professionals from all walks of life. In addition to using their own expertise, they act under the guidance of Venerable Uda Eriyagama Dhammajiva Thero, a forest Buddhist monk who has practices mindfulness for 40 years. He continues to live in a forest monastery dedicated to mindfulness practice.

Sati Pasala aims to teach mindfulness to the present and future generations without any regard to race, religion or social status. We appeal to all of you to put aside all differences and become a part of this organization by learning mindfulness or by volunteering your services.