Day of Mindfulness - Clown And The Art of Mindfulness - Saturday 17th May 2025

White Clouds Sangha recently had the opportunity to gather today for another Day of Mindfulness at Bedminster Quaker Meeting House in Bristol.

The day began with a guided meditation from our guest dharma teacher, Teri West, which set the tone for the day ahead. This was followed by some ice breaking activities, where we were asked to find partners and follow each other around the room only using our eyes, initially in full view, but then trying to hide, all whilst maintaining eye contact.

These activities, along with some bodily mirroring, allowed us to establish contact in a mindful way, but without talking.

After a break, Teri’s clowning practice was introduced, and we begin to adopt the practice, walking across an imaginary ‘stage’ in a mindful way.

We were then able to enjoy a blissful lunch outside, in perfect weather. The venue is gorgeous, with beautiful light, air, and a freshness that fitted the occasion so well. The room felt just right, with enough space to move around – which is an essential part of Teri’s practice. The sun was shining, and a gentle breeze accompanied our mindful eating.

After lunch, around ten friends became more active in the practice., Wearing hats and noses befitting of mindful clowns, they were asked to create an emotion amongst themselves, in groups of four, again without discussion.

They then performed ‘crossings’, where the group walked across the stage acting as one body, bringing the emotion to life in simple yet profound ways.

Teri really is the most wonderful teacher, with her profound awareness of people, and her dharma shone brightly throughout. The day had a real energy, as a Day of Mindfulness  but with a difference, with some sitting meditation, but with more focus on activity and connection.

New dharma doors were opened, and friends left feeling light, refreshed and energised to try new practices and delve deeper into the world of mindful clowning.

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Photos: Lidia Szczytowicz-Kolodziej