Evening of Mindful Stargazing

Description

When was the last time you looked up at the night sky with wide-eyed curiosity, appreciating the magic and awe of the stars? The practice of mindful stargazing is about immersing yourself in the experience of the night time and developing a first-hand, experiential knowledge of what it is not to look out at the Universe, but to ‘be’ in this vast Universe of ours.

During the evening we’ll be exploring a variety of mindful stargazing practices, focussing on contemplating our place within the cosmos and our connections to it – scientifically, energetically and spiritually.

Before going outside, we’ll practice a cosmic body scan, sensing different parts of our body and how they’re made of stuff that was produced in stars billions of years ago. Then as we go outdoors, we’ll spend some time immersing ourselves in the experience of the night sky as it is (clear or cloudy), and explore how we can feel part of the cosmos, at home in this vast universe of ours. We’ll finish by contemplating some amazing images of space and exploring some of the myths and stories associated with the constellations.

Light picnic supper together with hot drinks included.

Note the event will go ahead whatever the weather.

Mark Westmoquette is an ex-professional astronomer with 10 years research experience, and now is a full-time yoga and mindfulness teacher based in London. He is the author of 'Mindful Thoughts for Stargazers' (2019), 'The Mindful Universe’ (2020) and Look Up at Bedtime (2026), and has featured on BBC Radio and in various magazines about his mindful stargazing practices. Mark is also a Zen Buddhist teacher.

The stargazing event with Mark was absolutely wonderful. The setting, the format, the food and the knowledge that Mark has totally filled my heat and heart with joy, light and awe. I cannot recommend this evening enough. If you just want to find out more of what is up there when we look up; but also find yourself totally grounded to the here and now, then this is the evening of for you. Mark is an absolute wonder. I will keep looking up Mark and dream of floating in the cosmos whilst kissing the earth with every step. Thank you.
– Karen (Nov 22)

It was a deeply connecting, experiential, immersive and overall delightful event - surprisingly undiminished by the rain and cloud cover! Tokes Farm, Dorset was a perfect venue. You have such a gift for creating a relaxed and engaging atmosphere. The way you brought together your astronomical knowledge, Zen training, yoga and chi gong teaching was and is, a great blessing. My senses were heightened and I felt relaxed, energised and engaged throughout the evening. I felt as though I had travelled to the outer reaches of the universe and back. It was a very enriching, unique opportunity and evening. Thank you!!
– Gail (Nov 22)

What a thought provoking and stimulating occasion it was. I felt privileged to have had the opportunity to share that time with everyone and your guidance to reset our perspective in every way.
– Paul and Rosalie (Feb 23)