The above program was conducted on Sunday the 17th December 2017 at the main hall of the University Viharaya, from 8.30am to about 12.00 noon.
Approximately120 students of Daham Pasala and about 5 teachers participated. Venerable Bamunugama Shantharimala Maha Thero provided all facilities to conduct the event. It is interesting to note that of the 120 students about 80 students were under 10 years!
The program started with a brief introduction to mindfulness. This practice was re-enforced with a little activity – ‘mindful toffee eating’. As there was ample space in the main hall to lie down, the students participated in the ‘boat-game’. Later they were introduced to mindful sitting and mindful walking. The mindful walking activity was done in small groups of about 20 students in a suitable location. Whilst engaged in the mindful walking, the participants were encouraged to pay attention to the numerous surrounding sounds as well.
Having had a mixed group; approximately 30 students above grade 6, & the majority of students being under 10 years, obtaining the required written feedback was a bit challenging. It is deemed that for future sessions that it would be more effective to work with parallel groups.