Photos by www.photobyvivian.com
The Tibetan Sacred Arts Tour with seven delegates/monks from the Drepung Gomang Monastery in South India recently visited Morro Bay for three days. Let’s Get Tuned Sound and Yoga Studio invited all to “immerse themselves” in the experience and view a mandala creation, meditation, and cultural celebration.
At the conclusion of their sacred sand mandala art creation, which the monks had spent four days creating, they said a prayer to bring good fortune and end suffering in our community. Then there was a dissolution of the mandala by carefully sweeping it away then collecting the sand and handing it out to all the children and attendees. The sweeping away of the mandala represents impermanence and non-attachment.
A procession to the bay followed where a prayer was said by the water to return the beautiful art to Mother Earth and all sentient beings as a wish for peace, compassion and relief of suffering.
“The Monks said they felt the immense support of this community, with between 500-700 people visiting from all over the county, state and even out of state visitors who traveled to be here for their visit,” said Jon Nowaczyk, who owns Let’s Get Tuned Sound and Yoga Studio with Natalie Teichmann.
During the Monk’s stay, visitors were able to visit a marketplace featuring handcrafted goods created by Tibetan artisans. Donations were welcomed for the viewing, requesting private or business blessings, attending special meditations and sound healing events.
Proceeds from the tour benefited the Tibetan refugee community and the Drepung Gomang Monastery in South India, helping preserve their sacred traditions and culture.
