Online Meditation Crew

WE'VE MOVED!

2011-01-04T12:14:00.001-08:00

The new home of the Online Meditation Crew is: http://onlinemeditationcrew.org/

See you there!
The Management

Togetherness Meditation Day 166

2011-01-04T04:40:00.000-08:00

'Sup Crew!

We are a couple days into the new year and the crew is blowing up as usual. The day began with @J9o1e6y bright and early at 4am EST. And the Stop. Drop. Mediate. Shout-outs have continued and will continue throughout the day.

The midday meet-up will be at 2pm EST / 11am PST and will be led by the "Grand Master of Tuesday's Shout-outs", @shing999. The #afterdark crew will be led once again by @violetsblue at 10pm EST / 7pm PST.

Be on the lookout for the #OMCru hashtag and as always, all are welcome!

Enjoy the day, CREW! Breathe every moment in...deeply! And rock om! \m/ _/|\_ :-)

Togetherness Meditation Day 165

2011-01-03T10:51:00.000-08:00

It's a new year, and the Online Meditation Crew is starting the year off strong!!Several early morning shout-outs got the day started right, continuing into the Midday Meditative Meetup.

If you missed any of the sits so far today, no fear, there is more where that came from! Watch for @violetsblue and the #afterdark crew, gathering at 10pm EST/7pm PST tonight. And, for the international crew, who might find these times challenging, @J9o1e6y will be leading some mindfulness at 4amEST/1amPST. (That should be 8pm in Sydney!) Check your local time here.

As always, anyone can send out a stop.drop.meditate at any time. Chances are good that someone will want to sit then, too! Just remember to follow the #OMCru hashtag on Twitter, and share your practice with the crew!!

Today's Community Fostering Question:
How did you spend New Year's Eve?

Have a great day/evening/night!! _/\_ \m/

Togetherness Meditation Day 162, 163 and 164

2010-12-30T22:44:00.000-08:00

Hey Ya'll CREW!

This is the New Year Weekend and for many of us it is a time of Reflection, Renewal, and Resolution.
No matter if you spend it alone, with friends or family it can be a happy or sometimes sad event or even a non-event.

We may brood over days past thinking we have not done enough or make lists and plans for tomorrow hoping things will turn out better. If the CREW has taught us anything, it is that it is the present, the
NOW, this given moment that counts.

As the year winds down, turn to the Early AM Crew for a Meetup to jump-start your day. Watch for SHOUT outs from @Shuliji or @j9o1e6y and others throughout the morning.

@Silvercrone will host the Midday Meetup at 11:30am PST / 2:30pm EST for anyone needing a peaceful break in your day.

#Afterdark will be led by @violetsblue so watch for her signal (#OMCru #afterdark) to find your quiet spot and sit with her and others to see out 2010 and welcome 2011. On Friday night the #afterdark will meet at 7pm PST / 10pm EST.

If the Meetup times are not working for you, remember you can always call for a STOP-Drop-Meditate anytime. Use the #OMCru #wannasit #hashtag to notify any Crew members of your intentions so they can join in.

The Online Meditation Crew welcomes everyone, regardless of your practice to Meditate and Destroy!
Sitting together...miles apart.

Let's Meetup and welcome in 2011 together!
Breathe Deeply.
Enjoy your weekend.
Peace, Harmony, and Joy to all.

If you have any wishes or hopes for follow Crew members for the New Year, feel free to share in the comment section. _/|\_ \m/

Togetherness Meditation - Day 160 and 161

2010-12-29T12:30:00.000-08:00

Hello again, wonderful #OMCru!

The end of the year is nearly upon us yet the CREW has nevertheless kept the metta river flowing strong.

Today we had a pretty early shout-out (for the Americas) from @J9o1e6y at 5:16am PST / 8:16am EST, followed by our regular Mid-day Meditative Meet-up at 11:30am PST / 2:30pm EST.

Remember everyone is not only welcome but also highly encouraged to send Stop (the daily routine), Drop (what you are doing), Meditate (all practices, all traditions, all faiths, all are welcome) whenever you have a space during the day and want to share your mindfulness with the CREW.

Our #afterdark CREW will be meeting later in the day, so be on the lookout for @violetblue's call to meditative sharing for a great way to wind down from the day.

Tomorrow @Silvercrone, our Fearless Meditative Meet-up Mum will take over the mid-day shout out, so don't miss her call or she won't give you any of her delicious peanut butter cookies.

Anything you want to share with the CREW?

Maybe you have some special family traditions or yummy recipes you enjoy this time of the year?

Our comments section is always open for you.

Sending lotsa hugs and a ton of heavy metta to you all and hoping we can continue growing together during the next year.

Meditating together…miles apart.

Rock on CREW! _/|\_ :-) \m/

Togetherness Meditation - Day 159

2010-12-27T08:42:00.000-08:00

It's been a quiet morning here at Lake Wobegon...err...the Online Meditation Crew. @chickabreck sent a shout-out at 1:00 am (Eastern) to get the day started off on the right foot. Since then it's been pretty quiet. Must be everyone on the East Coast of the U.S. trying to dig out from the blizzard that is in full swing. Please send lots of metta to those OMC folk during your practice(s) today.

Speaking of practice, today's Midday Meditative Meetup will be at 2:00pm (Eastern)/11:00am (Pacific). Your host for today's togetherness will be @billjoseph. Follow him and/or watch for the #OMCru hashtag and join in. Remember: all practices welcome, all traditions welcome, all faiths welcome, all people welcome. We sit together...apart, to meditate and destroy!!

Don't forget to add your post-meditation reflections to the comments!

Mucho metta to all, wherever you may be (physically or on your path). _/\_ \m/

Togetherness Meditation Days 156, 157 and 158

2010-12-23T21:04:00.000-08:00

Greetings CREW!

This has been a wonderful week with some new faces and many regulars keeping the flow going on our Meditation Togetherness. While some folks are away others have stepped in and the CREW keeps on getting stronger and stronger with your participation. Meditate and Destroy!

The Early AM Crew has been active. There have also been frequent STOP - Drop - MEDITATE Shout Outs throughout the day and evening. Let's continue this trend.

Please follow the #OMCru hashtags to keep up with any last minute time changes as we head into this holiday weekend. Midday MeetUp times may vary a little bit. Friday/Saturday/Sunday look for @silvercrone at 11:30AM PST / 2:30PM EST to be at the helm.

In addition @violetsblue and @queenj may share the #afterdark Meetups so check the #OMCru hashtag for exact times. What is important is that we are all working to keep the flow going with the CREW!

For a change of pace, I would like to share an Awareness poem written by Holly Mann.

Awareness - July 1, 2010

Intensely aware,
as though within me it stares,
with eyes so piercing they cannot be seen.
With depth of understanding, beyond what I can dream.

The knowledge of life’s brevity,
whispered into my ear as I live out each day,
quietly I hear.

Reminders of the whispering wisdom are everywhere.
In the pure joy and laughter of my own child.
In those moments frozen in time,
where some may scold and frown,
I become aware again of that whispered wisdom.

At times the whispers transform into thunder,
rolling through the sky,
passing by with unexpected moments,
causing me to hold my breath.

Each moment I try to shed the seriousness learned,
to see through the eyes of my child,
his raw emotions just pull from me,
enabling me to see,
each moment and each breath as an opportunity.

Each day an adventure,
each problem a battle to conquer,
with a heart ablaze with passion and strength.

Intensely aware,
of each moment in time.
The brevity of it all,
and in those moments you can find -
awareness.

May we all be aware and mindful of the moment. Practice Peace and Share Kindness. Rock \m/ Crew
@hellofromhere says it all... "Wishing all followers of all faiths (or secular celebrants) a peaceful and calm time during the holiday season" _/|\_

Togetherness Meditation - Days 153, 154, and 155

2010-12-21T08:24:00.000-08:00

Good Day CREW!!!

This morning impromptu Stop. Drop. MEDITATE! shout-outs have welcomed the day and the midday meet-up will be led by @shing999 at 1pm EST / 10am PST. Also don't forget to join the #afterdark crew led by @violetsblue at 10pm EST / 7pm PST.

As always, impromptu Stop. Drop. Meditate shout-outs will show up throughout the day and night, so keep an eye out for the world famous #OMCru hashtag. All are welcome and silent check-ins and check-outs are always welcome.

As our community grows and to ensure all understand the all-inclusive feel of the OMC. I want to share, once again, the idea that our very own Zen Outlaw put down on paper one day that manifested as the #OMCru:

"Straight up, being with others - having shared experiences - is important. For Buddhists, the word 'sangha' is used to represent the collaborative spirit of individuals who study and practice together. In modern-day Christianity, the Greek term 'oikos' is employed to indicate a collection of individuals who through social interaction and commitment to mutual growth form familial bonds. A common thread for many spiritual and religious traditions is communing and practicing with others, underscoring the benefits of having a 'crew'. Shared practice is a means of accountability to self and others, as well as an awareness of others' presence on the path - whether seen or unseen. In essence, shared practice is both a comfort and a kick in the pants - avenues by which to foster one's intrinsic motivation to deepen practice.

For some, shared practice is a struggle; time, money, access all pose challenges on the path. Online networking, however, opens up shared practice to all and creates the space for communities of online practitioners to develop and grow.

The Online Meditation Crew (OMC) is a group of individuals who, through the wonders of technology and a common interest in shared practice, have bumped into each other along the path. The purpose of the OMC is to foster the meditation practice of the individual through the support and company of a crew. Anyone and everyone is welcome to come along on the journey. You can sit. You can walk. You can snuggle under the covers. Just be one with your meditative practice and one with the Crew in sharing your journey.

How do you become a member of the OMC?

- Everyday a Tweet will sing out into the interwebs calling for crewmembers to join together in meditation for 15 minutes (a notice on the Blog will be posted too).

- When the initial call to meditate goes out, crew members will be asked to reply with a 'CHECK-IN' message that they are ready to begin.

- Each individual will set a timer for 15 minutes and begin the countdown once the official 'BEGIN' alert goes out.

- Meditate, per usual.

- When the 15 minutes are up, another 'CHECK-IN' message will go out and all crewmembers will be asked to send back a reply (either in short on Twitter or a bit more lengthy in the comment section on the OMC blog).

Ready to get meditatin' with the OMC?"

Enjoy the day Crew! Breathe deep, drop some metta and meditate and destroy! \m/ _/|\_ Peace.....

Togetherness Meditation - Day 152

2010-12-20T11:05:00.000-08:00

It was a busy weekend at the OMC, and we are now sliding back in to our workweek. Some of us are fortunate enough to have the week off, some have a short week, and for some it's just another "week at the office".

Our Monday started with an early morning shout-out from @Shuliji, then on to our regularly scheduled midday meditation. In between was a stop.drop.meditate from @JamisonWiggins, who sat while riding a ferry.

Later today @violetsblue will be gathering the #afterdark crew (look for that shout-out around 10:00pm eastern). Tomorrow's midday meetup will be led by @shing999, so keep an eye out for his call!

And, as always, anyone is welcome to send out a stop.drop.meditate at any time during the day. At this busy time of year our schedules don't always allow us to get together at the usual time(s). Share your practice, and there's bound to be someone who will join in!!

Today's community fostering question:

Do you practice at work? If so, how do you integrate your practice with your workday?

Let us know your tips/tricks/techniques in the comments!!

Whether we're on the deck, or in the galley, keep the metta flowin'!! _/|\_ \m/

Peace.

Togetherness Meditation Days 149, 150 and 151

2010-12-16T22:38:00.000-08:00

Hey Ya'll - Seasons Greetings to the OMC!

Regardless of how you celebrate or observe this time of year, for many of us it is a time of travel, visits and visitors. All this activity can be a busy and hectic time in our lives.

Remember the OMCru meet ups will still be here - up and running for you to take time during your day to regroup, breathe, and relax. Some of the times and leaders my change but the CREW gives us all a place to Meditate and Destroy, as our Capt. says. Also, you can always call for a STOP. DROP. MEDITATE anytime.

Remember to follow the #OMCru hashtags to keep up to date on the daily Shout-Outs. The AM Morning Crew will continue to do their thing each day so watch for their SHOUT OUTS to join in.

Taking a cue from @The_KamikaZEN, the MidDay Shout Out will be a little earlier this weekend and next week as a trial. Do let us know what you think about the new time of 10AM PST / 1PM EST in the comment section. Join @silvercrone Friday, Saturday and Sunday. @billjoseph - Monday. @shing999 Tuesday and @The_KamikaZEN - Wednesday and Thursday.

Check in #afterdark with @violetsblue daily at 7PM PST / 10PM EST as a final close to your day.

And for our community fostering question this weekend: Do you have a special food or dish you prepare this time of year?

Breathe Deeply and Enjoy your weekend CREW.
Peace. Love. and Harmony! _/|\_ Let the Metta flow \m/

Togetherness Meditation - Days 147 and 148

2010-12-16T11:20:00.000-08:00

Hello again OMCru,

With folks busy getting ready to close the year and bid welcome to a new one, the #twangha has still found the time to Stop, Drop and Meditate at all times and places, good work CREW!

Let's keep the metta river flowing, especially in this time of sharing with family and friends.

With some slight schedule variations, our mid-day and after-dark meditative meet-ups have been going strong nevertheless, thanks to all crewmembers who are working hard to keep the practice wheel spinning without interruptions all thru the season.

Be sure to be on the lookout for the #OMCru hashtag to pop on your timeline any time at any place, you can always join in or, if your situation makes it truly difficult to sit and meditate, you'll still know the CREW is there, sharing mindfulness with you.

And since we already touched the subject, why not take the chance and turn it into today's Community Fostering Question:

Do you find knowing the OMCru is sharing practice changes your state of mind even when you are unable to join in?

Share with your loved ones, live the here and now and be as compassionately naughty as you possibly can, or more.

Rock the day, CREW! _/|\_ :-) \m/

Togetherness Meditation - Days 145 and 146

2010-12-13T17:41:00.000-08:00

Howdy OMCru!

It's a busy time for everyone and opportunities to stop, drop and meditate help keep us all in a more peaceful frame of mind. Midday meditation happens at 11:30am PST/2:30pm EST - watch for shout outs from @The_KamikaZEN and @TheZenOutlaw this week. Next week keep your eye on @billjoseph as he joins in to lead the crew on Mondays and @shing999 on Tuesdays!

As always the Weekend Crew - Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays! - continues to be led by @silvercrone - when she's not cooking up a storm!

The 'after dark' edition of meditative mindfulness takes place at 7pm PST/10pm EST and is lead by @violetsblue. End your day the peaceful way with some quality evening mindfulness.

Everyone appreciates a little extra metta and impromptu Stop, Drop, Meditate shout outs are highly encouraged during this season. Share the love and the peace with all your CREW friends! Whenever you find the time to share some mindfulness use the #OMCru hashtag on Twitter to call all tweeps to meditative arms.

Plus, some special CREW news: @BuddhistGeeks are having a conference in LA (http://www.buddhistgeeks.com/conference/) & gave us our own promo code for $50 off a conference ticket - just say 'OMCRU'!

And finally, our community fostering question is:

What is your favorite way to relax during a stressful time?

Rock on my friends! _/|\_ \m/

Togetherness Meditation - Days 142, 143, and 144 (Weekend Edition)

2010-12-10T10:14:00.000-08:00

Hello Online Meditation Crew! Happy Weekend!

To start off the day, a Stop. Drop. MEDITATE! shout-out from the Morning Crew gathered all together for some shared meditative practice.

The midday moment of meditative mindfulness on Friday will be led by @TheZenOutlaw at 11:30am PST/2:30pm EST. Make space and time in your day to find your flow and share with the CREW!

On Saturday and Sunday, the midday meditative meetup will be led by @silvercrone. Look for shout-outs around 11:30am PST/2:30pm EST. All are welcome to join in - anyone, anywhere, any time, any meditative practice!

Later in the day, the 'after dark' CREW will join in meditative togetherness around 7pm PST/10pm EST and 8pm PST/11pm EST. Check out the Twitter streams of @violetsblue and @queenj for details.

Also, be on the lookout throughout the day for impromptu Stop. Drop. MEDITATE! requests from CREWmembers far and wide. And jot down some daily post-meditation reflections in the comment section of this blog post and/or on Twitter. Also, take a look at our Holiday Gala post from Day 141!

Sharing practice, deepening practice...the #OMCru! Rock 'om'! \m/

Togetherness Meditation - Day 141

2010-12-09T14:24:00.000-08:00

Howdy OMCru.

The holidays are upon us, a time most of us will spend with family and friends regardless of our personal beliefs.

It is also a time in which your friendly neighborhood OMCru facilitators would like to take a little break.

In order to do this, we'd like to know if any of you would like to volunteer for shout-out duty during December - January, so we can spread the work and have a bit more time to spend with our loved ones.

If you want to help just get in touch with @TheZenOutlaw to get more details.

Let's keep the heavy metta river flowing during the holidays CREW! Impromptu Stop, Drop, Meditate shout outs are highly encouraged during this season.

Whenever you find the time to share some mindfulness use the #OMCru hashtag on Twitter to call all tweeps to meditative arms.

Even if your chances to formally sit are few and far apart every aspect of your everyday routine, running, cooking, writing, chatting, eating, can become meditation when done with full presence of body and mind.

And just to start getting into the festive mood…

Cut to a huge red-curtained theatre, it's a full gala night with everyone in the audience wearing tuxedos (yes, even the ladies, but they wear fishnets and red stilettos, unlike the gents). Whoopi Goldberg and Tom Cruise enter stage thru the left as we hear the sound of a 20 piece orchesta playing a symphonic version of Iron Maiden's Journeyman. Clapping from the audience can be heard in the background as they reach the podium.

Whoopi: – Community is one of the three pillars at the very heart of any spiritual practice. All contemplative traditions across the ages have recognized this and worked hard to foster it.

Tom: –There are many ways for a community to grow strong, from sharing common activities like pilgrimages and rituals to organizing great parties. But in the end all have the same basic goal, letting the members know each other better.

Whoopi: – The more the members of a community know and trust each other the closer they become and the more willing to provide help and support to their peers they will be.

Tom: – This is the true spirit and soul of a community.

Whoopi: – And so, it is our great honor to be here and present you with… envelope please.

A tall blonde california roller derby chick rolls across the stage towards Tom and Whoopi. While she passes in front of them without stoping, Whoopi swiftly takes the envelope from the small silver tray she is carrying, breaks the seal and hands the paper slip to Tom.

Tom: And the Community Fostering question for today is…

What is your favorite holiday season tradition and why?

They both leave the stage and the crowd loudly cheers. The Community Fostering Question enters stage thru the right, all teary with emotion and looking lovely in a Valentino design with matching Chanel shoes and purse.

As the orchestra plays the first chords of Pantera's Cowboys From Hell, the camera zooms into her waving figure until the shot becomes a close up of her smiling face.

Happy Holidays CREW! Enjoy, share and be safe with your loved ones.

Tons of Heavy Metta to all and Rock on. _/|\_ :-) \m/

Togetherness Meditation - Day 140

2010-12-08T13:38:00.001-08:00

A great Bodhi Day to you all, OMCru!

First of all, a quick heads up to let you know Andy Lambert, a dear friend and crewmember better known to us as @BayouCityBuddha on Twitter, went into emergency surgery last night.

He's out of surgery and recovering in the ICU right now.

Please keep him and his family in your thoughts and send tons of heavy metta and good wishes their way.

Shout-outs to Stop, Drop, Meditate have been flowing as usual. And we akso held our regular mid-day meditative meetup at 11:30am PST / 2:30pm EST, with a very nice turnout. Great way to celebrate a very special day. :-)

Our after-dark crew will be calling us to share in mindfulness a bit later today, so be sure to be on the lookout for their signal if you want a great way to end the day.

We'd also like to share with you a bit of happy news. The Blogisattva Awards Finalists list is out and the #OMCru got two honorable mentions. Way to go CREW!

Our little surf spot on the web has gotten bigger, and a lot of new faces are sharing their practice.

Today instead of our daily Community Fostering Question we'd like to invite all our new friends to share a small hello and maybe introduce themselves in the comments section of our blog.

Let's get to know each other, share and grow together, as a CREW.

Breathe deeply, enjoy life to the fullest today and every day and rock on! _/|\_ :-) \m/

Togetherness Meditation - Day 139

2010-12-07T10:49:00.000-08:00

Greetings, Online Meditation Crew!

The day started with a few impromptu Stop. Drop. MEDITATE! shout-outs from fellow CREWmembers around the globe and a discussion of Team OMCru climbing Everest! Today's scheduled midday meditative meetup will be at 11:30am PST/12:30am MST/1:30pm CST/2:30pm EST. Later on today, the Stop. Drop. MEDITATE! shout-outs will continue to flow and the 'after dark' Crew will meetup around 7pm PST/10pm EST and again at 8pm PST/11pm EST.

All are welcome to join in - anyone, anywhere, any time, any and all meditative practices! Just be on the lookout for the #OMCru on Twitter!

Our community-fostering question for today is....:

What is one memory you have you hope never fades and why?

Enjoy the day, CREW! Breathe every moment in...deeply! And rock om! \m/ _/|\_ :-)

Togetherness Meditation - Day 138

2010-12-06T11:39:00.000-08:00

Happy Monday, Online Meditation Crew!

To start off the day, Stop. Drop. MEDITATE! shout-outs from the Morning Crew echoed through the halls of Twitter.

The midday meditative meetup was led by @TheZenOutlaw at 11am PST/2pm EST. CREWmembers shared their flow or joined in for some guided metta on TinyChat.

Later in the day, the 'after dark' CREW will join in meditative togetherness around 7pm PST/10pm EST and 8pm PST/11pm EST. Check out the Twitter streams of @violetsblue and @queenj for details. Also, be on the lookout throughout the day for impromptu Stop. Drop. MEDITATE! requests from CREWmembers far and wide via the #OMCru hashtag.

And since community is what we like to foster here at the OMC, today's community-fostering question is: *drumroll please*

Who is your favorite superhero and why?

Sharing practice, deepening practice...the #OMCru! Rock om! \m/

Togetherness Meditation - Days 135, 136, and 137 (WEEKEND EDITION)

2010-12-03T10:27:00.000-08:00

Hello Online Meditation Crew! Happy Weekend!

To start off the day, Stop. Drop. MEDITATE! shout-outs from the Morning Crew gather all together for some shared meditative practice.

The midday meditative meetup on Friday will be led by @TheZenOutlaw at 11:30am PST/2:30pm EST. Share your flow or join in for some guided metta on Gchat at theonlinemeditationcrew at gmail dot com.

On Saturday and Sunday, the midday meditative meetup will be led by @silvercrone. Look for shout-outs around 11:30am PST/2:30pm EST. All are welcome to join in - anyone, anywhere, any time, any meditative practice!

Later in the day, the 'after dark' CREW will join in meditative togetherness around 7pm PST/10pm EST and 8pm PST/11pm EST. Check out the Twitter streams of @violetsblue and @queenj for details.

Also, be on the lookout throughout the day for impromptu Stop. Drop. MEDITATE! requests from CREWmembers far and wide. And jot down some daily post-meditation reflections in the comment section of this blog post and/or on Twitter.

Sharing practice, deepening practice...the #OMCru!

Togetherness Meditation - Days 133 & 134

2010-12-01T11:49:00.000-08:00

Hello OMCru!

Shout-outs galore today as our CREW started the day quite early.

Our Midday Meditative Meetup shout-out was sent out at 11:30am PST - 1:30pm CST - 2:30pm EST.

The 'after dark' Crew will be sending out their own invitations to sit and share practice later today - around 7pm PST/10pm EST and 8pm PST/11pm EST.

As usual, we can expect many more STOP, DROP, MEDITATE calls from the Twangha at any moment during the day, so be on the lookout for the #OMCru hashtag on Twitter and join in whenever you have the time.

As many of you have noticed, the OMCru has grown into a very open community which welcomes practitioners from many different traditions, lineages and faiths wishing to share their moments of mindfulness. This has inspired our community-fostering question of the day:

How has sharing your practice with a diverse community made it better/different for you?

Be present and rock the day CREW! _/|\_ :-) \m/

Togetherness Meditation - Day 132

2010-11-30T10:26:00.000-08:00

Hi there, Online Meditation Crew!

The day started with a meditative meetup with our International Crew at 1:45am PST/ 9:45am London/8:45pm Sydney. Followed by several impromptu Stop. Drop. MEDITATE! shout-outs from fellow CREWmembers around the globe and a scheduled midday meditative meetup at 10:30am PST/11:30am MST/12:30pm CST/1:30pm EST. Later on today, the Stop. Drop. MEDITATE! shout-outs will continue to flow and the 'after dark' Crew will meetup around 7pm PST/10pm EST.

All are welcome to join in - anyone, anywhere, any time, any and all meditative practices! Just be on the lookout for the #OMCru on Twitter!

Our community-fostering question for today is....:

How do you define the word "community"?

Enjoy the day, CREW! Breathe every moment in...deeply! And rock om! \m/ _/|\_ :-)

Togetherness Mediation - Day 131

2010-11-29T10:09:00.000-08:00

Hello Online Meditation Crew!

Today, impromptu Stop. Drop. MEDITATE! shout-outs have greeted the day and there will be two scheduled midday meditative meetups at 10:15am PST/1:15pm EST and 11:30am PST/2:30pm EST - both led by @TheZenOutlaw. Later in the day, the 'after dark' Crew will share in togetherness with @violetsblue leading the shout-outs at 7pm PST/10pm EST.

Many new folks have joined the CREW recently or have showed interest in the OMC. Here is the idea that a Zen Outlaw jotted down one day that manifested as the #OMCru:

"Straight up, being with others - having shared experiences - is important. For Buddhists, the word 'sangha' is used to represent the collaborative spirit of individuals who study and practice together. In modern-day Christianity, the Greek term 'oikos' is employed to indicate a collection of individuals who through social interaction and commitment to mutual growth form familial bonds. A common thread for many spiritual and religious traditions is communing and practicing with others, underscoring the benefits of having a 'crew'. Shared practice is a means of accountability to self and others, as well as an awareness of others' presence on the path - whether seen or unseen. In essence, shared practice is both a comfort and a kick in the pants - avenues by which to foster one's intrinsic motivation to deepen practice.

For some, shared practice is a struggle; time, money, access all pose challenges on the path. Online networking, however, opens up shared practice to all and creates the space for communities of online practitioners to develop and grow.

The Online Meditation Crew (OMC) is a group of individuals who, through the wonders of technology and a common interest in shared practice, have bumped into each other along the path. The purpose of the OMC is to foster the meditation practice of the individual through the support and company of a crew. Anyone and everyone is welcome to come along on the journey. You can sit. You can walk. You can snuggle under the covers. Just be one with your meditative practice and one with the Crew in sharing your journey.

How do you become a member of the OMC?

- Everyday a Tweet will sing out into the interwebs calling for crewmembers to join together in meditation for 15 minutes (a notice on the Blog will be posted too).

- When the initial call to meditate goes out, crew members will be asked to reply with a 'CHECK-IN' message that they are ready to begin.

- Each individual will set a timer for 15 minutes and begin the countdown once the official 'BEGIN' alert goes out.

- Meditate, per usual.

- When the 15 minutes are up, another 'CHECK-IN' message will go out and all crewmembers will be asked to send back a reply (either in short on Twitter or a bit more lengthy in the comment section on the OMC blog).

Ready to get meditatin' with the OMC?"

Breathe the day in deeply Crew! And rock on! _/|\_ :-) \m/

Togetherness Meditation - Days 128, 129 and 130 (WEEKEND EDITION)

2010-11-26T01:00:00.000-08:00

Hello Online Meditation Crew!

To start off everyday, Stop. Drop. MEDITATE! shout-outs from the Morning Crew gather all together for some shared meditative practice.

The midday meditative meetup on Friday will be led by @shing999 and on Saturday and Sunday by @silvercrone. Look for shout-outs around 11:30am PST/2:30pm EST. All are welcome to join in - anyone, anywhere, any time, any meditative practice!

Later in the day, the 'after dark' CREW will join in meditative togetherness around 7pm PST/10pm EST. Check out the Twitter streams of @violetsblue and @queenj for details.

Also, be on the lookout throughout the day for impromptu Stop. Drop. MEDITATE! requests from CREWmembers far and wide. And jot down some post-meditation reflections in the comment section of the daily blog post and/or on Twitter.

Sharing practice, deepening practice...the #OMCru!

Togetherness Meditation, Special Double Issue - Days 126 and 127

2010-11-25T09:36:00.000-08:00

Hiya OMCru!

Head colds and other samsaric delicacies kept our blog from being properly updated yesterday, but that didn't stop the metta and shout-outs from flowing all thru the day and well into this morning.

Since today is a busy family day for our friends in the US, our mid-day meditative meetup will be a bit earlier than usual, 10:00am PST / 1:00pm EST, so as to give folks a chance to be mindful without burning their Thanksgiving dinners.

And as for our evening and after-dark crews they are still right on schedule, so be on the lookout for their shout-outs!

Even if you don't celebrate Thanksgiving, the CREW still wants to ask you a special community-fostering question today:

If you could thank someone who is no longer in your life, who would it be and why?

Happy turkey or veggie sharing with your loved ones day! _/|\_ :-) \m/ <3

Togetherness Meditation - Day 125

2010-11-23T00:01:00.000-08:00

Greetings OMC!

The Stop. Drop. MEDITATE! shout-outs have been flowin' already today! Be sure to give everyone a bit of time to check-in and get ready before giving the cue to begin meditative practice together! Also, be sure to check the #OMCru hashtag on Twitter for new CREWmembers who might be joining in but aren't yet in your timeline or an OMC Twitter list. The CREW is always growing - may we be welcoming and open to all, for all!

The scheduled Midday meditative meetup will be at 11:30am PST/2:30pm EST and the infamous 'after dark' Crew will be doing a scheduled shout-out at 7pm PST/10pm EST. Keep on the lookout! And don't forget to post check-out messages on Twitter and/or the Blog.

The community fostering question for today is:

What does your username and/or real name mean?

Breathe the day in...deeply! And rock on! \m/ <3 :-)

Togetherness Meditation - Day 124

2010-11-22T10:07:00.000-08:00

Oh Happy Day, Online Meditation Crew!

Today there were a few Stop. Drop. MEDITATE! shout-outs in the very early morn (around 3am PST/6am EST!) and some regular ol' morn (at least in terms of PST) shout-outs too.

The 'Hey! It's Midday in the Americas' meditative togetherness shout-out will be at 11am PST/2pm EST today and the 'after dark' Crew will meet up at 7pm PST/10pm EST. Watch for the #OMCru hashtag on Twitter and join in! Everyone is always welcome - anyone, anywhere, any time, any meditative practice.

Remember, anyone can send an impromptu shout-out for togetherness practice. Simply follow these

3 Steps to Sending an #OMCru Shout-out on Twitter:

1. Do a pre-meditation check-in ~5-15minutes before you would like to begin your meditative practice (giving the folks joining you a chance to tell you they are present and to get ready!).

2. Let everyone know when to 'begin' - synchronizing the start for body, heart, and mind.

3. Do a post-meditation check-in/out: say farewells and jot down any reflections on Twitter and/or the OMC blog.

To wrap up this post, a community-fostering question of the day!:

What is on your gratitude list this holiday season?

Breathe the day in...deeply, CREW! Enjoy! _/|\_ <3 \m/

Togetherness Meditation - Days 121, 122, & 123 (WEEKEND EDITION)

2010-11-19T11:42:00.000-08:00

Hey there, OMC!

What's flowin'? Why Stop. Drop. MEDITATE shout-outs, of course! Don't forget over the weekend CREWmember @silvercrone leads the midday meditative meetup shout-outs! Also, look for @violetsblue to send out meditative togetherness requests 'after dark'.

The holiday season is creepin' up on us...so this weekend's community-fostering question is:

How will you be celebrating the holidays this year?

Classic.

Namaste Crew! _/|\_ <3 \m/

Togetherness Meditation - Day 120

2010-11-18T14:49:00.000-08:00

Hello again Crew!

A flu and migraine epidemic took over the #OMCru's control bridge today, preventing us from properly updating the blog earlier.

But still the fearless Crew has bravely manned their meditative battle stations keeping the shout-outs to Stop, Drop, Meditate flowing all day long. Well done everyone!

The evening and after-dark crews are ready and waiting to send out their daily meetup calls, so keep an eye open for the #OMCru hashtag to pop up in your Twitter timeline inviting you to share a moment of mindfulness with the #Twangha.

And taking advantage of our current health status, here's our community-fostering question for today:

How difficult/easy is it for you to follow your practice when dealing with illness?

Tons of heavy metta for you all, CREW! _/|\_ :-) \m/

Togetherness Meditation - Day 119

2010-11-17T12:17:00.000-08:00

Greetings OMCru,

The CREW keeps getting bigger and the shout-outs flow steadily thru the day.

Scheduled meetups of our morning, mid-day, evening and after-dark CREW are in full swing to keep the heavy metta river flowing.

We all need a little air and some elbow space every now and then to let our minds dream and be inspired, so here's a little something for you:

And our community-fostering question for today gives you a big open sky where to fly:

What inspires you?

Keep rocking CREW! _/|\_ :-) \m/ <3

Togetherness Meditation - Day 118

2010-11-16T10:04:00.000-08:00

Hello Online Meditation Crew!

Stop. Drop. MEDITATE! and scheduled midday & 'after dark' shout-outs will continue to ring throughout the halls of Twitter today...but the twists and turns this blog post takes might be a bit unexpected! Fasten your seatbelts!

Yesterday, a query was posed regarding the essence of the OMC. At the heart of the Online Meditation Crew is the fostering of each individual's meditative practice through the presence and support of others (community, sangha, oikos, etc.). But what is meant by 'individual practice'? The OMCru is open to and welcoming of all folks and meditative practices (Buddhist, Hindu, Christian, Sufi, etc.). In essence, the Crew might be viewed as 'dharma-less' to some - without roots in or alignment to one particular tradition or view. The Crew is not necessarily 'dharma-free', however, as practice is often viewed as dharma - 'dharma' being defined as an essential quality or character of the cosmos or one's own nature. How can the Crew be without dharma while being dharmic in nature? Sounds like a koan! The Crew does not subscribe to one meditative path but to all paths, any path, self as path, practice as path. Dharma is personal, experiential, sociocultural; it is here and now, within and beyond, formless and concrete. The Crew welcomes everyone and every meditative practice - so perhaps a more apt phrase to describe the OMC would be 'dharma-open' or 'freestyle' in nature - freestyle meditative practice, freestyle community-building, freestyle dharma!

Which leads us to our community-fostering question of the day:

How do you feel about the OMCru's open, freestyle dharmic energy?

Namaste Crew! Breathe the day in...deeply! _/\_<3 \m/

Togetherness Meditation - Day 117

2010-11-15T10:21:00.000-08:00

Happy Monday, Crew!

Unfortunately this blog post has contracted flu-like symptoms. So in lieu of the usual 411 and community-fostering question, there is this:

Namaste Crew! Get down! _/|\_

Togetherness Meditation - Days 114, 115, 116 (THE WEEKEND EDITION!)

2010-11-12T09:03:00.001-08:00

Woohoo, it's the Weekend Crew!

Oh, how the shout-outs have been a-flowin' - the river of metta is runnin' wild! In the Morning, there are shout-outs! At Midday, there are shout-outs...and in the Evening too!

On Friday, @TheZenOutlaw leads the call and on Saturday & Sunday, @Silvercrone will bring together all for scheduled midday meditative meetups at 11:30am PST/ 2:30pm EST. Join in! All are always welcome - anyone, anywhere, any time, any meditative practice!

Throughout the course of every day, the #OMCru hashtag is poppin' up on Twitter bringin' Stop. Drop. MEDITATE! magic to the masses. Then, just when you think the Evening Crew has all gone to bed, an 'after dark' shout-out rings out from @violetsblue at 7pm PST/10pm EST!

Community. Sangha. That's what the Online Meditation Crew is all about! To foster the Twangha spirit, a question:

How are you planning to spend the weekend?

If you could spend it however you wanted, what would you do?

Namaste Crew! Breathe the day in deeply and rock it out! _/|\_ \m/ <3

Togetherness Meditation - Day 113 - A Day to Remember

2010-11-11T13:25:00.001-08:00

Hello again, dear CREW.

As some you may know, today is a special day for many of our friends, especially those in North America. A day of remembrance.

Politics, ideology, religion, ethnicity, all these things which apparently separate us and which have unfortunately pitted us against each other are skin deep.

Regardless of what side of the battlefield our particular history has placed us, the fear, anguish and pain of those faced with the possibility or the sad reality of never again seeing a loved one return is universal.

If we could really understand this deeply in our hearts, is there any way we could really bring ourselves to inflict this pain on anyone?

Let us all dedicate our practice today to all those beings everywhere whose lives have been touched by conflict.

May all beings everywhere be free of mental suffering.
May all beings everywhere be free of physical suffering.
May all beings everywhere be safe.
May all beings everywhere be healthy.
May all beings everywhere be happy.
May all beings everywhere be filled with loving kindness.

Today we would like to ask you:

What special meaning does this day hold for you and why?

May you all be safe and peaceful, CREW.

Namaste _/|\_

Togetherness Meditation - Day 112

2010-11-10T15:44:00.000-08:00

Tashi Delek, CREW!

A busy day for the #OMCru today, with shout-outs popping up on Twitter almost hourly. We are rolling full steam ahead!

Our scheduled meetups keep expanding:

Mid-day get together call was sent at 11:30am PST / 2:30pm EST.

The #eveningcrew will be sending their daily shout-outs between 6:00-8:00pm PST / 9:00-11:00pm EST.

And now our new 'after dark' crew led by @violetsblue will get together at 7:00pm PST / 10:00pm EST.

As the #Twangha grows so do our bonds, links, and friendship, and this leads to today's community-fostering question:

What's the favorite moment you have experienced with the CREW and why?

May you surf the Heavy Metta waves all thru the day! _/|\_ :-) \m/

Togetherness Meditation - Day 111

2010-11-09T10:01:00.000-08:00

Aloha Crew!

Today, the shout-outs began flowin' as some of the Crew was waking up and others were heading to bed. The 'Hey! It's Midday in the Americas..." meditative meetup shout-out will be at 11:15am PST/2:15pm EST. All are always welcome so join in! The Evening Crew has been sending Stop. Drop. MEDITATE! calls every night; plus, a new scheduled meditative meetup 'after dark' will be led by CREWmember @violetsblue at 7pm PST/10pm EST daily.

The OMC has definitely grown quite a bit over the past few weeks...In case you may have missed them, here are some of the CREW's favorite links:

-- The Online Meditation Crew Webstore (with all proceeds benefiting the monthly charitable cause chosen by BuddhaBadges)

-- A meditation and Dharma talk by one of our CREWmembers and Against the Stream facilitators, paralax999.

Which leads us to...our community-fostering question of the day:

What are some of your favorite meditation/Dharma related links to visit on the web?

Namaste Crew! Enjoy the day! _/|\_ \m/ :-)

Togetherness Meditation - Day 110

2010-11-08T08:19:00.000-08:00

Greetings Crew!

Today, the OMCru shout-outs have been flowin' - kickin' off a new week! Besides Morning and Evening shout-outs, there is also a scheduled Midday Meditative Meetup which will be held today at 10:45am PST/1:45pm EST. Remember, anyone can send out an impromptu call to share in meditative practice - a shout-out to Stop. Drop. MEDITATE! The Online Meditation Crew welcomes all, always - anyone, anywhere, any time, any meditative practice. So look for us on Twitter and jump right in! _/|\_

In an effort to continue cultivating the Twangha spirit - the essence of community that is at the heart of the OMC - here is today's community-fostering question:

What is your favorite indulgence (food, drink, donuts, staying up past your bedtime, etc.)? The CREW wants to know!

Namaste Crew! Breathe in the day...deeply! _/|\_ \m/ <3

Togetherness Meditation (Weekend Edition) - Days 108 & 109

2010-11-06T13:17:00.000-07:00

Why hello there CREW!

Hope everyone is breathing the day in deeply!

This weekend, the opportunities to Stop (what you are doing). Drop (to the cushion, chair, pavement, dirt road). MEDITATE! (Share your meditative practice with the Online Meditation Crew for 15 minutes, more or less) during the Morning and Evening will be plentiful! Just be on the lookout for the #OMCru hashtag on Twitter or over there ---> to the right---> on the Blog.

During Midday (in the Americas) this weekend and for many weekends to come, CREWmember @silvercrone will be leading the shout-outs at 11:30am PDT/2:30pm EDT. All are welcome to join in - anyone, anywhere, any time, any practice! (Don't forget to turn your clocks back one hour Saturday night/Sunday morning if you are in North America, Crew!)

In honor of our new weekend Midday Meditative Meetup leader - silvercrone - our community-fostering question is:

What are some of your hobbies/special interests/talents (not related to work & besides the OMCru!)?

And here is some 411 on the significance of the number '108' (as the OMC will be celebrating 108 days in existence this Saturday!): here and here (just for starters!).

Namaste Crew! _/|\_ Enjoy the weekend! \m/ :-) <3

Togetherness Meditation - Day 107

2010-11-05T09:28:00.000-07:00

Howdy OMC!

Happy Diwali! May there be great light in all of your lives...always!

Today, the Online Meditation Crew shared in practice in the Morn, will get together at Midday (11:30am PDT/ 2:30pm EDT), and again in the Evening hours (6-8pm PDT/9-11pm EDT). Also, impromptu calls to share in meditative togetherness - shout-outs to Stop. Drop. MEDITATE! - have been flowin' and can come from anyone, anywhere in the world, at any time! Everyone is always welcome - so please join in!

The community-fostering question for today is:

If you could live anywhere in the world, where would you live and why?

Enjoy the day, Crew! Namaste and mucho heavy metta! \m/ _/|\_ ;-)

Togetherness Meditation - Day 106

2010-11-04T10:57:00.000-07:00

Hi OMCru, nice to see you again!

The #OMCru shout-outs have been flowing at a constant rhythm all morning, and will undoubtedly continue to do so during the rest of the day. Way to go, CREW!

Our daily mid-day (Americas) call to mindfulness will go out at 11:30am PDT / 2:30pm EDT, with early reminders to give you time to wind down, make some space in your activities and find a spot to share your practice.

The torch shall then be passed on to the fearless #eveningcrew, who will gather between 6:00-8:00pm PDT / 9:00-11:00pm EDT - be on the lookout and join in!

The CREW has been growing healthy and strong, bringing together people from incredibly diverse places, age groups, religious traditions and professional trades.

It's wonderfully inspiring to see how our respect for our differences has enriched our community and strengthened what we share in common, our commitment to spiritual practice.

In this spirit we'd like to pose today's community-fostering question:

How do you incorporate/balance your spiritual practice

and your everyday life, work and family activities?

Enjoy the day and keep that heavy metta stream flowing strong! _/|\_ :-) \m/

Togetherness Meditation - Day 105

2010-11-03T16:29:00.000-07:00

Hello Online Meditation Crew!

The #OMCru shout-outs on Twitter have been plentiful today with an especially large Crew gathering at Midday (in the Americas!). The Evening Crew will be sending out the call to gather for some meditative togetherness between 6-8pm PDT/9-11pm EDT - be on the lookout and join in!

Remember, all are welcome in the CREW - anyone, anywhere, any and all meditative practices, any time!

Many wonderful CREW-building ideas have been shared on Twitter over the past few days. Be reassured that the OMC admin is always listening and taking notes.....and that something is indeed in the works to be revealed for the new year!

What started as a single seed of an idea...continues to flourish and grow everyday! With this in mind, the community-fostering question of the day is:

What guiding principles should the Crew adopt as we continue growing - in numbers and together?

Namaste Crew! Mucho heavy metta to all! \m/ Breathe in the day! :-)

Togetherness Meditation - Day 104

2010-11-02T09:30:00.000-07:00

Aloha CREW!

Today, the MorningCrew and the "It's Noon on the East Coast" Crew met up for meditative togetherness. The "It's Midday in the Americas" Crew will be getting together at 11:30am PDT/2:30pm EDT and then the EveningCrew will Stop. Drop. MEDITATE! after the sun sets.

The community-fostering question for the day is:

What are some of your favorite books/magazines and why? (Can be Dharma-related or not.)

And a Bruce Lee quote for today:

"Now I see that I will never find the light
Unless, like the candle, I am my own fuel,
Consuming myself."

Enjoy the day, Online Meditation Crew! Namaste _/|\_ <3 \m/

Togetherness Meditation - Day 103

2010-11-01T09:09:00.000-07:00

Hi there OMC!

The Stop. Drop. MEDITATE! shout-outs have been flowin' already today! Be mindful, Crew, to give everyone a bit of time to check-in and get ready before giving the cue to begin meditative practice together! Also, be sure to check the #OMCru hashtag on Twitter for new CREWmembers who might be joining in but aren't yet in your timeline or an OMC Twitter list. The CREW is always growing - may we be welcoming and open to all, for all!

The scheduled Midday meditative meetup will be at 11:30am PDT/2:30pm EDT and the Evening Crew will be doing a shout-out around 6-7pm PDT/9-10pm EDT. Keep on the lookout! And don't forget to post check-out messages on Twitter and/or the Blog.

The community fostering question for today is:

Do you have a favorite sport you enjoy watching/playing? What is it and why?

And lastly, an answer to a question posed in the comment section of the blog:

Maria writes: "Sorry, I'm kind of new at Twitter and don´t really understand the # @ thing... I just want to join the #OMCru and don´t know what to do. Can you tell me?"

And the Online Meditation Crew says:

"Hi Maria!

Welcome to the Crew! _/\_

The Online Meditation Crew primarily communicates with each other via Twitter. Over there --> to the right is a gadget that captures what's happening in our Twitter stream. The '#' symbol allows one to search on Twitter - we use the #OMCru hashtag to find meditative shout-outs and other CREWmembers. The '@' symbol is used on Twitter to direct a message to a specific someone. So '@TheZenOutlaw' means that one is talking to or about the Zen Outlaw on Twitter.

Do you have a Twitter account? It's quick and free to sign up! You can also follow along with the Twitter feed on our Blog (another great Crew resource!). But to feel the true vibe of our Twangha (Twitter + Sangha), you should hop on the Twitter ship!

If you have any questions, feel free to ask anyone in the CREW - or drop @TheZenOutlaw a message on Twitter."

Namaste! Breathe in the Day Crew! _/\_ <3 \m/

Togetherness Meditation - Day 102

2010-10-31T13:52:00.000-07:00

Greetings Online Meditation Crew!

Today, the shout-outs flowed freely in the Morning and at Midday and will continue to flow into the Evening hours (based on American timezones that is!). Keep on the lookout for the #OMCru hashtag on Twitter.

Two special announcements:

1. HUGE bundles of gratitude and metta to all who participated in the Sit-A-Thon yesterday! As a sponsor, a sitter, a supporter, you all rocked \m/ _/\_

2. The OMCru is branchin' out into....recipe swappin'! That's right the Twangha is now sharin' their favorite foods and dishes via the #OMCook hashtag on Twitter. Be sure to send out some tasty tweets!

In honor of the Hungry Ghosts, today's community-fostering question is:

Do you/does your family celebrate Halloween/Dia de los Muertos/All Saints - All Souls Day/Fall Festival? What are your celebrations like? Be sure to post some photos!

Have a spooktacular day Crew! Namaste _/\_ \m/ <3

Togetherness Meditation - Day 101 - Special Sit-A-Thon Edition!

2010-10-30T12:48:00.001-07:00

Hi CREW!

Today we'll be remotely sitting along Zen Outlaw as she represents Team #OMCru at Against The Stream's first annual Sit-A-Thon!

Shout-outs from different crew members will start going out every 30 minutes starting at 1pm PDT / 4pm EDT and ending at 5pm PDT / 8pm EDT.

Join in any time and sit with us for as long as you want.

Remember to use the #OMCru and #ATSit hashtags for your check-ins and check-outs, and leave a comment on the blog to let us know you sat with us.

Mucho heavy metta and enjoy this special day!

_/|\_ :-) \m/

Togetherness Meditation - Day 100

2010-10-29T11:12:00.001-07:00

Togetherness Meditation - Day 99 (And yet more Sit-A-Thon 411)

2010-10-28T10:42:00.000-07:00

Hello and a wonderful day to everyone at the #OMCru!

We're just ONE day away from our 100th! Time sure flies when you're having fun. :-)

Scheduled and impromptu shout-outs have been flowin' throughout the day...with still many more to come!

Our midday togetherness meditation shout-out will go out at 11:30am PDT / 2:30pm EDT, so set a reminder and make yourself some time if you wanna sit with the #twangha.

Please don't hesitate to do a Stop. Drop. MEDITATE! shout-out whenever you would like to share in practice with the CREW!

Just use these simple steps:

1. Use the #OMCru hashtag to do a pre-meditation check-in ~ 5-15 minutes before you would like to begin your meditative practice (giving the folks joining you a chance to tell you they are present and to get ready!). It's also nice if you include the #wannasit and #twangha hashtags.

2. Let everyone know when to 'begin' - synchronizing the start for body, heart, and mind.

3. Do a post-meditation check-in/out: say farewells and jot down any reflections on Twitter and/or the OMC blog.

We've all been looking forward to this and now it's finally about to happen....

This Saturday October 30th our dear Zen Outlaw will represent the #OMCru during the afternoon meditation sessions of Against The Stream's first annual Sit-A-Thon and, thru the magic of Twitter, the CREW will be sitting along with her!

For this we plan to have relayed 30 minute sits starting at 1:00pm PDT / 4:00pm EDT and ending at 5:00pm PDT / 8:00pm EDT.

Please be on the lookout for #OMCru #ATSit shout-outs from the following CREWmembers:

1:00pm PDT / 4:00pm EDT - @The_KamikaZEN
1:30pm PDT / 4:30pm EDT - @kaikibean
2:00pm PDT / 5:00pm EDT - @punkrockbuddha
2:30pm PDT / 5:30pm EDT - @spacecadet31
3:00pm PDT / 6:00pm EDT - @silvercrone
3:30pm PDT / 6:30pm EDT - @hellofromhere
4:00pm PDT / 7:00pm EDT - @punkrockbuddha
4:30pm PDT / 7:30pm EDT - @Shuliji

You are all invited to join in for as long as you wish and as many sessions as you want, and if you plan to invite your friends to sit along at any time during the day just be sure to include the #OMCru (Online Meditation Crew) and #ATSit (Against The Stream Sit-A-Thon) hashtags.

Go Team #OMCru!

Before you leave, check out and leave your comments for today's community-fostering question, with big tip o' the hat to @gameandpc for bringing it up on Twitter:

Do you tend to practice/study one meditative tradition/lineage

or do you find and take teachings anyway you can get them?

Namaste Crew! Mucho heavy metta to all! _/|\_ \m/ Enjoy the day! :-)

Togetherness Meditation - Day 98 (Plus more Sit-A-Thon 411)

2010-10-27T11:04:00.000-07:00

Hello dear CREWmembers!

The freestyle Dharma has been flowing with many impromptu shout-outs; the #OMCru is really rockin' and rollin'!

Today we'll get together at 11:30am PDT / 2:30pm EDT, so set an alarm and make the time to sit with the #Twangha.

Many of you have seen the small videos the CREW has been posting to TwitVid, we're doing it as a way to share small but important pieces of our lives with all of you as a way to better know each other.

Please join us by posting a small video snippet about yourself. Post it to TwitVid and be sure to include the #OMCru hashtag so we all can find it. ;-)

And just a quick reminder. This Saturday, October 30th, the Online Meditation Crew will be supporting one of our sister Sanghas - Against the Stream Buddhist Meditation Society - by taking part in their first annual Sit-A-Thon. The Sit-A-Thon will run from 9am - 5pm PDT and the Zen Outlaw will be representing the CREW during the afternoon meditation sessions.

Since not all of us can be present at the Sit-A-Thon, we want to invite the whole CREW to sit along by organizing relayed shout-outs between 1-5pm PDT / 4-8pm EDT, stay tuned for more news!

Of course, you can also share your practice at any other hour during the Sit-A-Thon, just be sure to use the #OMCru and #ATSit hashtags on Twitter so we can join you.

If you would like to donate, please DM the Zen Outlaw via Twitter by 10/29.

And now, our community-fostering question of the day is:

What is your favorite part of your town, city or neighborhood and why?

(Great opportunity for a TwitVid! *hint, hint*)

Much heavy metta! Enjoy the day all. _/|\_ :-) \m/

Togetherness Meditation - Day 97 (Plus Sit-A-Thon 411)

2010-10-26T11:52:00.000-07:00

Greetings Online Meditation Crew!

The merit of today's OMCru togetherness meditation practice will be dedicated to those in Indonesia (earthquake & tsunami) and folks in the US (tornado touchdowns & warnings). Scheduled and impromptu shout-outs have been flowin' throughout the day...with still many more to come! Please don't hesitate to do a Stop. Drop. MEDITATE! shout-out whenever you would like to share in practice with the CREW!

Currently, the CREW is doing some community-fostering via TwitVids. Everyone is encouraged to film a short (or long!) documentary-style 'day in the life of' segment and post it to Twitter along with the OMCru hashtag!

Since Twangha spirit is at the heart of our shared practice, please post a TwitVid (or several!) and answer the daily community-fostering question. Today's question is:

What did/do you want to be when you grow up? And why?

Lastly, this Saturday, October 30th, the Online Meditation Crew will be supporting one of our sister Sanghas - Against the Stream Buddhist Meditation Society - by taking part in their first annual Sit-A-Thon. The Sit-A-Thon will run from 9am - 5pm PDT and the Zen Outlaw will be representing the CREW during the afternoon meditation sessions. If you would like to sit along virtually, please use the #OMCru and #ATSit hashtags on Twitter. And if you would like to donate, please DM the Zen Outlaw via Twitter by 10/29.

Namaste Crew! Mucho heavy metta to all! _/|\_ \m/ Enjoy the day! :-)

Togetherness Meditation - Day 96

2010-10-25T10:45:00.000-07:00

Hello Online Meditation Crew!

Today the freestyle Dharma will keep on flowin' with impromptu Stop. Drop. MEDITATE! shout-outs from CREWmembers far and wide, as well as scheduled meditative meetups in the Morning (3am PDT/6am EDT), at Midday (11:15am PDT/2:15pm EDT), and during the Evening hours (6-8pm PDT/9-11pm EDT). Join in, check-in, and share your meditative practice with the OMCru!

Everyone is always welcome - anyone, anywhere, any time, any practice!

Before you leave, don't forget to answer the community-fostering question of the day:

What is the recipe of your favorite dish/meal/dessert?

Namaste _/|\_ Breathe in the day!

Togetherness Meditation - Days 94 & 95

2010-10-23T15:44:00.000-07:00

Hope you're enjoying your weekend, OMCru.

Today we had a mid-day shout-out at 11:30am PDT / 2:30pm EDT.

We'd like to invite (and encourage) everyone to send Stop - Drop - Meditate or Impromptu #wannasit shout outs during the weekend. Let's keep the freestyle Dharma flowing!

Remember it only takes some simple steps to do it:

1. Use the #OMCru hashtag to do a pre-meditation check-in ~ 5-15 minutes before you would like to begin your meditative practice (giving the folks joining you a chance to tell you they are present and to get ready!). It's also nice if you include the #wannasit and #twangha hashtags.

2. Let everyone know when to 'begin' - synchronizing the start for body, heart, and mind.

3. Do a post-meditation check-in/out: say farewells and jot down any reflections on Twitter and/or the OMC blog.

As we keep getting closer to our 100th day together, we'd like you to take some time and think a bit about this blog...

Is it an important part of our #twangha community spirit?
What direction would you like to see it heading in the future?

The Sangha grows strong as our bonds grow strong, practicing, learning and sharing together.

And now, a special community-fostering question for the weekend:

From where in the world do you share your practice with the #OMCru?

Be as general or specific in your answer as you feel comfortable with…

answering planet Earth might be a bit too general though. ;-)

Much heavy metta and lotsa love, CREW! _/|\_ :-) \m/

Togetherness Meditation - Day 93

2010-10-22T13:16:00.000-07:00

Hello Dear Online Meditation Crew!

Today, we have gotten together for Morning and Midday meditative meetups...with Evening Crew and impromptu Stop. Drop. MEDITATE! shout-outs still to come! Watch for the #OMCru hashtag to pop up throughout the day!

This is also a super special day for the CREW with the release of our very own Official T-Shirt! Many thanks to the man behind the mystery - the KamikaZEN - for all of the time, effort, and graphic wizardry he put into the making of the shirt. You can find it for purchase here and/or here!

All profits from T-shirt purchases are donated to BuddhaBadges' charity of the month!

And last, but certainly not least, our community-fostering question of the day:

What is your favorite way to spend the day?

Breathe in the day, CREW! Namaste _/\_

Togetherness Meditation - Day 92

2010-10-21T11:30:00.000-07:00

Hey, #OMCru!

Our #MorningCrew sent its usual shout-outs between 4:30-7:00am PDT/7:30-10:00am EDT. Great chance to join the #OMCru if you're an early riser or in a different timezone!

Midday call to meditate went out at 11:30am PDT/2:30pm EDT today.

The #EveningCrew will be sending shout-outs between 6:00-9:00pm PDT / 9:00pm-12midnight EDT. Be sure to catch them for a great way to close the day.

You don't have to wait for scheduled shout-outs though! Anyone can send a call to Stop (the day's inertia) - Drop (what you are doing) - MEDITATE! (chant, mantra, pray, cook, whatever your mindfulness practice is). Just follow these simple steps:

1. Use the #OMCru hashtag to do a pre-meditation check-in ~ 5-15 minutes before you would like to begin your meditative practice (giving the folks joining you a chance to tell you they are present and to get ready!).

2. Let everyone know when to 'begin' - synchronizing the start for body, heart, and mind.

3. Do a post-meditation check-in/out: say farewells and jot down any reflections on Twitter and/or the OMC blog.

Getting to know each other is the best way to cultivate the community spirit of the Twangha (Twitter + Sangha), so let's share a bit about ourselves by answering today's community-fostering question:

How did the Buddha's teachings first enter your life?

Meditating together, growing together, learning together...miles apart.

Grasp the day, CREW! _/|\_ :-) \m/

Togetherness Meditation - Day 91

2010-10-20T12:31:00.000-07:00

Hello again, dear #OMCru!

It's wonderful to see our #MorningCrew and #EveningCrew are now running at full steam, with regular shout-outs between 3am PDT/6am EDT and 6-8pm PDT/9-11pm EDT respectively. The OMC Twangha keeps growing strong!

Our midday togetherness shout-out at 11:30am PDT/2:30pm EDT had a super turnout with a special metta dedication from @patasdegallina to a friend in need. Many thanks to all who joined in!

And, while you are here, why not share your thoughts by answering...

Today's Community-Fostering Question:

Do you turn your everyday mishaps

into opportunities for practice?

Tell us how.

Namaste, Mucho Heavy Metta and Enjoy the Day, CREW! _/|\_ :-) \m/

Togetherness Meditation - Day 90

2010-10-19T11:13:00.000-07:00

Warm greetings, Online Meditation Crew!

Today there were several Stop. Drop. MEDITATE! shout-outs in the very early morn (around 3am PDT/6am EDT!). The midday togetherness meditation was held at 11am PDT/2pm EDT and the Evening Crew will schedule shout-outs between 6-8pm PDT/9-11pm EDT. Keep an eye out for the #OMCru hashtag on Twitter!

Remember, anyone can send an impromptu shout-out for togetherness practice. Follow these 3 Steps to Sending an #OMCru Shout-out:

1. Do a pre-meditation check-in ~5-15minutes before you would like to begin your meditative practice (giving the folks joining you a chance to tell you they are present and to get ready!).

2. Let everyone know when to 'begin' - synchronizing the start for body, heart, and mind.

3. Do a post-meditation check-in/out: say farewells and jot down any reflections on Twitter and/or the OMC blog.

The community-fostering question of the day is:

What cultivates your happiness?

Namaste! _/|\_Breathe in the day!

Togetherness Meditation - Day 89

2010-10-18T11:59:00.000-07:00

Hello Dear Crew!

Already today there have been numerous impromptu shout-outs to Stop (what you are doing!). Drop (to the cushion, chair, pavement, mat). MEDITATE! (share in practice with the CREW for 15 minutes - more or less!), as well as scheduled meditative meetups in the Morning and at Midday (11:30am PDT/2:30pm EDT). Later today, the Evening Crew will come together to share in practice (usually between 6-8pm PDT/9-11pm EDT) and more shout-outs from CREWmembers far and wide will flow!

The community-fostering question of the day is:

What is/are your meditative practice(s)? And why?

Namaste! _/|\_ Breathe in the day!

Togetherness Meditation - Day 88

2010-10-17T11:23:00.000-07:00

Hello Online Meditation Crew!

Shout-outs have flowed (or will!) during the Morning, Midday, and Evening. Akin to shared meditative practice, the Crew also seeks to foster community connections and togetherness - the essence of the Twangha (Twitter + Sangha) spirit!

So the community-fostering question of the day is:

What is your favorite song/musical composition? And why?

Namaste! Enjoy the day! _/|\_

Togetherness Meditation - Day 87

2010-10-16T09:12:00.000-07:00

Hello Crew!

Today, regularly scheduled shout-outs and impromptu calls to Stop. Drop. MEDITATE! will be occurring throughout the day. Also, CREWmembers are in attendance (virtually and in-person) at the Pema Chödrön retreat this weekend and some shout-outs will be sent out during the retreat's scheduled times for meditative practice.

Last night during her talk, Ani Pema said that "anybody who is really interested in looking at oneself with gentleness and honesty...cultivating unconditional friendship with oneself...and gentle tender-hearted determination to know oneself...is a warrior." Or, for some, an Outlaw! :-) Or, for all of us, a CREWmember!

Namaste Online Meditation CREWmembers! Enjoy the day! _/\_

Togetherness Meditation - Day 86

2010-10-15T11:32:00.000-07:00

Hello dear Crew!

Today the Morning (3am PDT/6am EDT), Midday (11:15am PDT/2:15pm EDT), and Evening Crews (6-8pm PDT/9-11pm EDT) have done or will be doing shout-outs. Also impromptu calls to meditate - what we refer to as Stop. Drop. MEDITATE! shout-outs - will be happening throughout the day. Simply keep an eye out for the #OMCru hashtag on Twitter and join in....anyone, any time, anywhere, any meditative practice! _/|\_

Many CREWmembers will be attending (either in-person or virtually) Pema Chödrön's Smile at Fear: Finding a True Heart of Bravery retreat this weekend. In honor of such a beloved teacher, a quote:

"To be fully alive, fully human, and completely awake is to be continually thrown out of the nest. To live fully is to be always in no-man's-land, to experience each moment as completely new and fresh. To live is to be willing to die over and over again. "~ Pema Chödrön (When Things Fall Apart: Heart Advice for Difficult Times)

Namaste! Enjoy the day! _/|\_

Togetherness Meditation - Day 85

2010-10-14T10:44:00.000-07:00

Hey there, Crew!

Our #MorningCrew is now sending regular shout-outs between 4:00am - 6:00am PDT / 7:00am - 9:00am EDT. What better way to kick-start your day?

Our daily mid-day call to meditative arms will come from @The_KamikaZEN at 11:30am PDT / 2:30pm EDT. Set an alarm, post a sticky note, ask your little sister to poke you...anything to make sure you'll be there in togetherness with the Crew. ;-)

The #EveningCrew is growing strong, with daily shout-outs between 6:00pm - 9:00pm PDT / 9:00pm - midnight EDT. Great for calming the mind before calling it a day.

Share your thoughts, share your practice, grow together as a Crew.

Enjoy the day!

_/|\_ :-) \m/

Togetherness Meditation - Day 84

2010-10-13T08:10:00.000-07:00

Hello again, dear Crew!

Today we woke up not only to the now regular shout-outs from our #MorningCrew, but also to the great news of the Chilean miners' rescue. It's really inspiring to see so much metta flowing to them from all over the world!

Today our mid-day meditation shout-out will be sent by @The_KamikaZEN at 11:00am PDT/2:00pm EDT, with a special dedication to the Chilean miners and their families.

Our #EveningCrew will be sending their regular shout-outs, and there will surely be many impromptu Stop. Drop. MEDITATE! calls from the Crew during the day - so keep your eyes open for the #OMCru hashtag on Twitter.

An important part of the Twangha (Twitter Sangha!) is having the chance to share our thoughts, feelings and experience with each other so we can learn and grow together.There are many ways you can share with the Crew. Give us a shout on Twitter, use the comment section of this blog or post a discussion on our Facebook page.

Looking forward to reading you all!

Metta and enjoy the day. _/|\_ :-) \m/

Togetherness Meditation - Day 83

2010-10-12T09:54:00.000-07:00

Dearest Crew,

How are you? How are things flowin'? How are you feeling?

Today, there were some early morning calls for togetherness meditation. Did you join in? What was your practice? Any post-meditation reflections?

This afternoon at 11am PDT/2pm EDT, there will be a shout-out to join together in meditative practice at midday. Will you be there? What will your practice be? During post-meditation check-out, please feel free to jot down some thoughts here on our Blog.

Throughout the day and later tonight, impromptu Stop. Drop. MEDITATE! and scheduled Evening Crew shout-outs will occur. Are you looking forward to practicing with the Online Meditation Crew? Please, share your thoughts!

Namaste, Crew! Celebrate the Day! _/\_

Togetherness Meditation - Day 82

2010-10-11T09:38:00.000-07:00

Happy Monday, #OMCru!

Today we kick-started our early practice with shout-outs by the blooming #MorningCrew.

Later today our daily scheduled get-together call will be sent out by @The_KamikaZEN at 11:30am PDT / 2:30pm EDT. Set a reminder, find a nice spot and join the CREW!

Our full-steam #EveningCrew is always ready to send shout-outs between 6:00pm - 9:00pm PDT / 9:00pm - midnight EDT.

Remember today is #ComingOutDay; whether as an OUT or an ALLY you can help those living in shame and fear by openly showing that they are not alone and that things can and will get better.

Namaste and celebrate the day, Crew! _/|\_

Togetherness Meditation - Day 10.10.10

2010-10-10T10:22:00.000-07:00

Greetings CREWmembers!

Morning & Midday shout-outs today captured the strong Twangha spirit! Sharing practice, deepening practice...the Online Meditation Crew!

Later today, the Evening Crew will send out a shout-out or two. Plus, there will be impromptu Stop. Drop. MEDITATE! requests throughout the day.

Please take a look at the #OMCru Webstore when you have a moment: http://thekamikazen.redbubble.com/
100% of all sales from our t-shirts, hoodies, kid’s clothing, stickers or whatever you kindly wish to buy go directly to the monthly charitable cause chosen by our Dharma partner, Buddha Badges.

Also, please consider making a donation to support Team #OMCru at the Against The Stream Sit-A-Thon on October 30th (only 20 Days away!): http://againstthestream.org/pdfs/SitaThonFlyer.pdf DM the OUTLAW for details!

Namaste! _/\_

Togetherness Meditation - Day 80

2010-10-09T09:57:00.001-07:00

What should we do today, Crew?

Why the same thing we do everyday! Stop. Drop. MEDITATE!

_/\_

Togetherness Meditation - Day 79

2010-10-08T09:43:00.000-07:00

We are gettin' old #OMCru. Officially 79 today! ;-)

Let's see what's on the ol' Meditative Calendar for the day:

- Morning Crew meditative togetherness? CHECK.

- Midday meditative meetup? Happening at 11:15am PDT/2:15pm EDT today. Alarm set!

- Evening Crew raucous meditative get-together? Probably some time between 6-8pm PDT/9-11pm EDT. Gotta set a reminder....or two.

- Stop. Drop. MEDITATE!? Always on the look-out! _/\_

Sounds like a plan! What's on your schedule?

Togetherness Meditation - Day 78

2010-10-07T08:02:00.000-07:00

Greetings, #OMCru!

Daily #morningcrew shout-outs have been coming frequently around 3:00 - 3:30am PDT / 6:00 - 6:30am EDT from @Shuliji, she's a real early riser!

@The_KamikaZEN will lead our daily scheduled togetherness practice at 11:30am PDT / 2:30pm EDT. Set an alarm and join the CREW!

The #eveningcrew meets regularly, you can catch their shout-outs between 6:00pm - 9:00pm PDT/9:00pm - 12:00midnight EDT.

Be on the lookout for the #OMCru hashtag on Twitter at any moment, there's always someone ready to share practice!

And now, a special announcement.

The @AgainstStream Sit-A-Thon is in 24 days and we only need 7 more donors to fill a whole donation form on behalf of Team #OMCru!

Find out more about this great fundraiser and DM @TheZenOutlaw for details on how to make a donation.

Sharing practice, deepening practice... The Online Meditation Crew!

Enjoy the day! _/|\_ :-) \m/

Togetherness Meditation - Day 77

2010-10-06T09:27:00.000-07:00

Hello and welcome aboard #OMCru airlines.

Our #morningcrew early bird flights took off between 5:45am - 7:00am PDT / 8:45am - 10:00am EDT, with @ZenPatricio, @jesseangelo and @foolishbeing at the controls.

Today's mid-day scheduled flight will depart from gate Om at 11:30am PDT / 2:30pm EDT with @The_KamikaZEN wearing the pilot googles. Don't worry folks, he won't crash the plane... but do keep your seat-belts on, he's known to meditate and destroy and enjoys aerobatics.

Should you miss your flight, never fear! The #eveningcrew files a daily red-eye special between 6:00-9:00pm PDT/9:00-12:00midnight EDT.

Also remember to keep an eye on Twitter for the #OMCru hashtag, you never know when one of our brave fly-boys or girls will decide to take off, and you can always hitch a ride!

If you are new to the Crew, please check out the 411 so you get the hang of who, what, how and when things happen around here.

And do leave a small hello in the comments section so we all get to know each other and keep the spirit of the Sangha, the community of spiritual friends, alive and growing.

We hope you enjoy your flight, CREW!

_/|\_ :-) \m/

Togetherness Meditation - Day 76

2010-10-05T10:08:00.000-07:00

Greetings #OMCru!

Here is what is on the menu for today:

1. The morning special was a platter of delectable shout-outs from CREWmembers far and wide. Such early risers! But it is wonderful to watch the #MorningCrew grow and develop into a full-fledged meditative buffet.

2. At midday, an 11:15am PDT/2:15pm EDT brew is on tap. All are welcome to a sip!

3. The evening dessert of choice will be an #EveningCrew specialty! However, the offer is only good between the hours of 6-9pm EDT/9-12midnight PDT...so act fast!

4. Throughout the day, tasty STOP. DROP. MEDITATE! tapas will be added to the menu. Be on the lookout as they can be plated and served at any time.

Enjoy! _/\_

Togetherness Meditation - Day 75

2010-10-04T10:07:00.001-07:00

Hello Online Meditation Crew!

To start off the day, shout-outs by @Shuliji, @the_KamikaZEN, and @HanumanDass got the Morning Crew together for some shared meditative practice.

The midday meditative meetup will be led by @TheZenOutlaw at 10:45am PDT/1:45pm EDT. All are welcome to join in!

Later in the day, the #EveningCrew will join in meditative togetherness between the hours of 6-9pm PDT/9pm-12midnight EDT.

Also, be on the lookout throughout the day for impromptu Stop. Drop. MEDITATE! requests from CREWmembers far and wide. And jot down some post-meditation reflections in the comment section of the daily blog post and/or on Twitter.

Sharing practice, deepening practice...the #OMCru!

Enjoy the day! _/\_

Togetherness Meditation - Day 74

2010-10-03T14:39:00.000-07:00

Hello Crew!

A lively conversation kickstarted the #OMCru morning today. CREWmembers are interested in getting together via TokBox sometime soon for some meditative sittin', as well as a Twangha social! Be on the lookout for more details to come...

The Morning and Midday Crew met up for scheduled meditative togetherness already today. Missed the shout-outs? Ne'ver fear! The #EveningCrew is still on deck for later and there are always impromptu Stop. Drop. MEDITATE! requests occurring throughout the day. Just join in! Any one, any time, any meditative practice _/\_

Don't forget...post-meditation check-ins, reflections, thoughts are welcome in the comment section of each day's blog post, as well as CREWmember introductions, Twangha news, and practice musings and insights.

Namaste all!

Togetherness Meditation - Day 73

2010-10-02T13:18:00.000-07:00

Happy Weekend #OMCru!

Today, the regular Morning Crew shout-out came from @Shuliji and the midday togetherness meditation was led by @TheZenOutlaw. Stop. Drop. MEDITATE! shout-outs were also flowing freely...as was the Heavy Metta...throughout the day! :-) \m/

Be on the lookout tonight for shout-outs from the #EveningCrew...especially between 6-8pm PDT/9-11pm EDT!

Sharing practice, deepening practice....The Online Meditation Crew!

Namaste all and enjoy the day! _/\_

Togetherness Meditation - Day 72

2010-10-01T09:27:00.001-07:00

Greetings Online Meditation CREWmembers! Happy Friday!

Today, midday togetherness meditation will be held at 10am PDT/1 pm EDT followed by Evening Crew shout-outs later in the day!

Be on the lookout for the #OMCru hashtag to pop up on Twitter, retweet the shout-out, and join in!

Everyone is always welcome to meditate with the Crew - anyone, any time, any practice! _/\_

Namaste!

Togetherness Meditation - Day 71

2010-09-30T09:02:00.000-07:00

Gee, OMCru, what do you want to do today?

Wanna meditate together? @The_KamikaZEN will lead our daily scheduled togetherness practice at 11:30 am PDT / 2:30 pm EDT. Set an alarm so you don't miss out!

The #eveningcrew has also been meeting regularly, you can catch their shout-outs between 6:00pm - 9:00 pm PDT/9:00 pm - 12:00 midnight EDT.

Remember the #OMCru hashtag is our callsign to practice together, expect to see it pop up on Twitter at any moment and check in if you can.

Enjoy the day, CREW! _/|\_

Togetherness Meditation - Day 70

2010-09-29T07:20:00.000-07:00

What's up, OMC?

Today we started really early with a Stop, Drop, Meditate shout-out from @Shuliji at 3:00am PDT / 6:00am EDT, followed a little later by @jacklope and @shing999.

Any other crew members want to practice early? Should we consider setting up an #earlybirdcrew for all our morning meditators? ;-)

Today's scheduled mid-day togetherness meditation shout-out will be sent out by @The_KamikaZEN at 11:30am PDT/2:30pm EDT.

The #eveningcrew is also sending out regular shout-outs, usually between the hours of 6-9pm PDT/9:00pm-12:00 midnight EDT.

Remember to be on the lookout for the #OMCru hashtag to pop up on Twitter during the day, or send a shout-out yourself whenever you are about to practice so we can all join in and share.

The OMC is here to support our practice. Zazen, walking, chanting, mantra, prayer, loving-kindness, meditate and destroy… all are welcome. You can even join in by being mindful of your daily activities, a lot of meditative cooking, gardening or working happens during our sessions.

Whatever you are doing right here and now can always become a chance to meditate with the Crew.

Let's practice together so we can grow together!

_/|\_ :-) \m/

Togetherness Meditation - Day 69

2010-09-28T11:31:00.000-07:00

What's up, OMC?

Today a scheduled shout-out for togetherness meditation went out at 11am PDT/2pm EDT on Twitter. Throughout the day, CREWmembers will be sending out requests for impromptu meditative get-togethers - the call to Stop. Drop. MEDITATE! Later in the day, the Evening Crew will meet up, usually between the hours of 6-9pm PDT/9pm-12midnight EDT.

The Online Meditation Crew is here to support all in practice - whatever that meditative practice may be (zazen, chanting, walking, mantra, loving-kindness, mindfulness, prayer, etc.)! It is a community - or 'sangha' - that shares meditative thoughts and reflections, as well as favorite recipes, humorous anecdotes, and music suggestions.

Go Team #OMCru! All are always welcome! Join in today! _/\_

Togetherness Meditation - Day 68

2010-09-27T13:20:00.000-07:00

Today, the #OMCru got together for some meditatin'. We do so on the daily. Sometimes the togetherness is scheduled, while other times it is completely impromptu.

You down with the OMC...?

Well, are ya?

_/\_

Togetherness Meditation - Day 67

2010-09-26T09:18:00.000-07:00

Good morning/evening/night CREW!

Today we had an early start with a shout-out from @the_KamikaZen at 8:15 am PDT/11:15 am EDT, closely followed by a Stop, Drop, MEDITATE! from @Zenfant1969. Great way to kick-start a Sunday!

Later today, a shout-out will go out from @TheZenOutlaw at 4pm PDT/7pm EDT for all who #wannasit, followed by the #EveningCrew's shout-outs.

Always be on the lookout for the #OMCru hashtag to pop up on Twitter, retweet the shout-out, and join in!

If you've just found the #OMCru (and even if you are one of our veterans ;-) ), please take a minute or two to leave a short hello in the comments section so we can all get to know each other and keep fostering the community spirit of the Sangha.

Anyone, any time, any practice... all are welcome to meditate with the CREW!

Enjoy your Sunday! _/|\_ :-) \m/

Togetherness Meditation - Day 66

2010-09-25T12:20:00.000-07:00

Hello Online Meditation CREWmembers!

Hope you are enjoying the weekend!

Today, midday togetherness meditation will be held at 1pm PDT/4 pm EDT followed by Evening Crew shout-outs later in the day!

Be on the lookout for the #OMCru hashtag to pop up on Twitter, retweet the shout-out, and join in!

Everyone is always welcome to meditate with the Crew - anyone, any time, any practice! _/\_

Namaste!

Togetherness Meditation - Day 65

2010-09-24T11:27:00.000-07:00

Aloha Crew!

Today's scheduled midday meditation meetup will be at 12:15pm PDT/3:15pm EDT. Everyone is always welcome to join in! Just do your regular meditative practice together with the #OMCru for around 15 minutes. Kickstart your weekend by meditatin' with the Twangha - the 'Twitter sangha'!

Keep on the lookout for shout-outs from the #EveningCrew later today - usually after 6pm PDT/9pm EDT. Stop. Drop. MEDITATE! requests will be popping up on Twitter throughout the day too!

Lastly, please feel free to jot down post-meditation reflections & thoughts, as well as new CREWmember introductions, in the comment section of each day's blog.

Sharing practice, deepening practice...the Online Meditation Crew! _/\_

Togetherness Meditation - Day 64

2010-09-23T15:11:00.000-07:00

Hello again CREW!

Today, the midday togetherness meditation was led by @the_KamikaZen at 11:30 PDT/2:30 pm EDT.

Several Stop. Drop. MEDITATE! shout-outs have also been sent by @ZenPatricio, @BuddhaBadges, @HanumanDass and @TheZenOutlaw... you can be sure there will be more to come during the day from the rest of the CREW!

Remember the#EveningCrew is also sending shout-outs on a regular basis... especially between 6-8pm PDT/9-11pm EDT!

If you missed the shout-outs, never fear! Remember anybody can send out a Stop, Drop, MEDITATE! It's as easy as using the #OMCru hashtag to let everyone know so we can join in. ;-)

And whenever you catch any of the shout-outs, please help us pass it along by retweeting it so your friends get the word too!

The #OMCru #Twangha keeps growing more and more everyday... Let's get to know each other so that we can keep the essence of community and 'sangha' at the heart of the Crew. It only takes a minute or two to write something about yourself in the comment section! Your post-meditation reflections are also always welcome!

Let's keep growing together, as a CREW! _/|\_ \m/

Togetherness Meditation - Day 63

2010-09-22T16:15:00.000-07:00

Hello Crew!

Today, the midday togetherness meditation was led by @the_KamikaZen at 12noon PDT/3pm EDT. Stop. Drop. MEDITATE! shout-outs were also flowing freely...as was the Metta...throughout the day! :-)

Be on the lookout tonight for shout-outs from the #EveningCrew...especially between 6-8pm PDT/9-11pm EDT!

The #OMCru #Twangha is growing everyday...To keep the essence of community and 'sangha' at the heart of the Crew, please jot down a brief introduction in the comment section! Post-meditation reflections also always welcome!

Namaste! _/\_

Togetherness Meditation - Day 62

2010-09-21T11:44:00.000-07:00

Greetings Online Meditation Crew!

Today, the midday meditative meetup was held at 11:30am PDT/2:30pm EDT. Later today, the #EveningCrew will hold togetherness meditations between 6 and 7:15pm PDT/9 and 10:15pm EDT. Also, be on the lookout for impromptu #OMCru and #wannasit shout-outs throughout the day! Stop. Drop. MEDITATE! together with the CREW _/\_

On another note, the OMC #Twangha has grown greatly over the past few weeks...many new folks joining in on Twitter and following the Blog. Please send out a little blurb about yourself to the CREW in the comment section of today's post....an introduction, a practice gem, a smile...let's share!

Togetherness Meditation - Day 61

2010-09-20T10:58:00.000-07:00

Hello Online Meditation Crew!

Today, the scheduled midday #OMCru meditative meetup will be held at 11:15am PDT/2:15pm EDT. Later in the day, the #EveningCrew will get together to share practice at 6pm PDT/9pm EDT and 7pm PDT/10pm EDT.

The flow of #OMCru shout-outs - whether scheduled or impromptu Stop. Drop. MEDITATE! requests - goes a lil somethin' like this:

1. Pre-meditation check-in: A roll call to gather anyone and everyone who would like to practice together with the Crew and a time to prepare for practice.

2. BEGIN: The time when the whole Crew will start their individual meditative practices...together! Practice times vary...but we aim to all practice together for 15 minutes.

3. Post-meditation check-in: An opportunity to 'check out' with the Crew - say farewells and post reflections. Everyone is welcome to use the comment section in the Blog to jot down some thoughts, ideas, feelings after practice.

Sharing practice, deepening practice...the Online Meditation Crew! _/\_

Togetherness Meditation - Day 60

2010-09-19T19:25:00.000-07:00

Hello Crew!

The Online Meditation Crew held a Stop. Drop. MEDITATE! day --> All are always invited to do an impromptu shout-out whenever they would like to share in practice with the #OMCru. Then the #EveningCrew met up for scheduled togetherness meditation at 7pm PDT/10pm EDT.

Enjoy the new week! Remember: "Nothing is worth more than this day." - Johann Von Goethe

Namaste _/\_

Togetherness Meditation - Day 59

2010-09-18T12:59:00.001-07:00

Hi there OMC!

The Online Meditation Crew's weekend was kickstarted by Stop. Drop. MEDITATE! and #wannasit requests, as well as a scheduled midday meditative meetup at 12:45pm PDT/3:45pm EDT.

Later in the day, be on the lookout for the #EveningCrew to send a shout-out or two for all of the #OMCru to join together in shared meditative practice.

Sharing practice, deepening practice...the Online Meditation Crew! _/\_

Togetherness Meditation - Day 58

2010-09-17T14:04:00.000-07:00

The Online Meditation Crew did some meditatin' today...
We got together at 11:30am PDT/2:30pm EDT to travel the Middle Way.

After the sun goes down, the #EveningCrew will rise...
But then most of them will sit right back down, so don't be surprised!

If you #wannasit, walk, chant, practice Metta, or just deeply breathe,
The Crew welcomes *you* to join in and wait 15 minutes before you leave!

The Crew shares recipes, book reviews, and music preferences, it's true...
But the favorite pastime of the Crew is sharing meditative practice with you! _/\_

Togetherness Meditation - Day 57

2010-09-16T13:06:00.001-07:00

Hey there, OMC!

Today, the_KamikaZen led the Crew in a midday meditative meetup at 12noon PDT/3pm EDT. Later today, look for shout-outs from PreciousMetal, BayouCityBuddha, and PunkRockBuddha as they lead the #EveningCrew in meditative togetherness at 6pm PDT/9pm EDT and at 7pm PDT/10pm EDT.

The Online Meditation Crew welcomes all - anyone, anywhere, at any time, any meditative practice. Please feel free to join in! _/\_

Look for #OMCru here-and-now shared practice requests (Stop. Drop MEDITATE!) and scheduled togetherness time shout-outs on Twitter...and get down with the OMC today!

Togetherness Meditation - Day 56

2010-09-15T10:48:00.001-07:00

Greetings Online Meditation Crew!

Today, the midday meditative meetup will be led by @the_KamikaZen at 12noon PDT/3pm EDT. #Wannasit, walk, chant, mindfully breathe - do your meditative practice with the #Twangha? Look for the #OMCru hashtag on Twitter and join in! All practitioners and practices are always welcome!

Plus, the #EveningCrew will meet up later in the day (6pm PDT/9pm EDT and 7pm PDT/10pm EDT) and impromptu Stop. Drop. MEDITATE! requests will ring out throughout the day on Twitter!

Also, be sure to check out the new design in the #OMCru webstore. 100% of all $$$ made on #OMCru merchandise goes to the charitable cause chosen monthly by our sister site in the Dharma, Buddha Badges!

Sharing practice, deepening practice....the Online Meditation Crew!
Namaste _/\_

Togetherness Meditation - Day 55

2010-09-14T00:00:00.000-07:00

Today, the Online Meditation Crew will come together for a midday meditative meetup at 10:45am PDT/1:45pm EDT. Later in the day, the #EveningCrew will do shout-outs at 6pm PDT/9pm EDT and 7pm PDT/10pm EDT.

Please be on the lookout for impromptu Stop. Drop. MEDITATE! requests throughout the day. Look for the #OMCru hashtag to pop up whenever anyone in the Crew is planning to meditate and would like to share in practice with others.

Also, please feel free to jot down in the comment section of each day's blog post and/or on Twitter any post-meditation reflections you would like to share with the Crew.

Sharing practice, deepening practice...the Online Meditation Crew! _/\_

Togetherness Meditation - Day 54

2010-09-13T09:55:00.000-07:00

Hello #OMCru! Today's scheduled midday meditative meetup will be at 10:30am PDT/1:30pm EDT. Take a break from your day and get together with the Crew! All are welcome to join in! Anyone, anywhere, any practice _/\_

Later today, the #EveningCrew will resume its regular back-to-back sit schedule: 6pm PDT/9pm EDT and 7pm PDT/10pm EDT. #Wannasit with the #Twangha? Morning, noon, and night - the Crew is meditatin'...together!

Also, look for (or SEND) impromptu Stop. Drop. MEDITATE! shout-outs throughout the day!

And....check out the new webstore of the Online Meditation Crew! 100% of all profits go to the monthly charitable cause chosen by our sister site: Buddha Badges!

Namaste all!

Togetherness Meditation - Days 52 & 53

2010-09-11T00:00:00.000-07:00

This weekend is one of remembrance, reminding us all of the impermanence of life and the importance of compassion. May all beings feel safe...feel strong...feel happy...and live with ease. _/\_

On Saturday and Sunday, the midday #OMCru requests for togetherness meditation will be led by CREWmember @PunkRockBuddha (on Twitter). Look for his shout-outs to ring out at 11:30am PDT/2:30pmEDT(1:30pm CDT) on both days. All are welcome to join in!

Impromptu Stop. Drop. MEDITATE! requests and the #EveningCrew scheduled meet-ups will continue to flow throughout the weekend, so keep your eye out for #OMCru and #wannasit Tweets!

Peace to all, everywhere. Namaste _/\_

Togetherness Meditation - Day 51

2010-09-10T14:02:00.000-07:00

Today the Crew kickstarted the weekend with a Stop. Drop. MEDITATE! shout-out from @BuddhaBadges followed by the scheduled midday meditation at 12:30pm PDT/3:30pm EDT.

Later today, the #EveningCrew will get together as scheduled followed by a very special Friday night shout-out at 9pm PDT/12midnight EDT from CREWmember @Hayzlenut (and, in spirit, @myriadthings) (on Twitter).

All are always welcome to join in...keep an eye out for the #OMCru & #wannasit hashtags on Twitter, be present, do your practice, and share in togetherness with the Crew! _/\_

Namaste!

Togetherness Meditation - Day 50

2010-09-09T02:47:00.000-07:00

Today @billjoseph (on Twitter) will be celebrating 1 month meditatin' with the Online Meditation Crew by inspiring a new #OMCru T-shirt design (check out http://bit.ly/bhWtDc) and leading scheduled midday meditation at 11:30am PDT/2:30pm EDT. All are welcome to join in - anyone, anywhere, any meditative practice! _/\_

During the day, look for impromptu Stop. Drop. MEDITATE! shout-outs calling for the #OMCru to get together and share in practice. Plus, the #EveningCrew will meet up later in the day: 6pm PDT/9pm EDT and 7pm PDT/10pm EDT.

Also, please give a listen to the guided meditation & dharma talk (begins about 30 mins into the recording) CREWmember @paralax999 (on Twitter) gave at Against the Stream in LA recently: http://bit.ly/aqb6dx

Namaste! Enjoy the day!

Togetherness Meditation - Day 49

2010-09-08T10:07:00.000-07:00

Hi OMC! Early this morning there was an #OMCru shout-out from @Shuliji (on Twitter). She will be sending regular shout-outs at around 3am PDT/6am EDT for our super early risers and International Crew.

Scheduled midday togetherness meditation for the Online Meditation Crew will be at 11:15am PDT/2:15pm EDT. Take a break from your day and join in! All are welcome!

The #EveningCrew will continue its back-to-back hourly shout-outs at 6pm PDT/9pm EDT and 7pm PDT/10pm EDT.

With impromptu Stop. Drop. MEDITATE! shout-outs and scheduled get-togethers, there are plenty of opportunities to join in togetherness meditation with the Crew throughout the day!

Sharing practice, deepening practice...the Online Meditation Crew. Namaste _/\_

An Open Question to the Crew

2010-09-07T13:01:00.001-07:00

Who is the Online Meditation Crew and what do we do?

All voices welcome. Comment below.

Togetherness Meditation - Day 48

2010-09-07T11:27:00.000-07:00

Hello Online Meditation Crew! Today's mid-day shout-out for the #OMCru to come together in meditative practice will be at 12noon PDT/3pm EDT. All are welcome!

The #OMCru & #wannasit hashtags on Twitter will guide you through the process of checking-in pre-meditation (a kind of roll call to greet all sharing in practice), the signal to 'BEGIN' 15 minutes (more or less, depending on preference and practice) of your meditative practice together with the Crew, and the post-meditation check-in (a time to say farewells to the Crew for now and to jot down a few reflections/practice thoughts on Twitter and/or the comment section of the Blog).

Later today, the #EveningCrew will meet up at 6pm PDT/9pm EDT and at 7pm PDT/10pm EDT.

Also, keep an eye out for impromptu Stop (what you're doing). Drop (to the cushion, chair, pavement with some walking shoes on). MEDITATE! (together with the Crew for 15 minutes) shout-outs throughout the day!

Enjoy the day! Namaste _/\_

Togetherness Meditations - Days 46 & 47

2010-09-04T17:44:00.000-07:00

For the next two days, #OMCru shout-outs will not be scheduled but impromptu Stop. Drop. MEDITATE! requests. Keep an eye on Twitter if you #wannasit with the #Twangha while celebrating the last official weekend of summer!

As the seasons change, we are reminded of the impermanence of the moment and the importance to be every breath, here and now! Namaste!

Sharing practice, deepening practice....the Online Meditation Crew! _/\_

Togetherness Meditation - Day 45

2010-09-04T17:39:00.000-07:00

Today, the Online Meditation Crew met up for shared practice at 12:30pm PDT/3:30pm EDT. Look for #OMCru #wannasit requests from the #EveningCrew on Twitter later today! Sending all tons of heavy metta \m/ _/\_ Enjoy the weekend!

Togetherness Meditation - Day 44

2010-09-03T05:12:00.000-07:00

The Online Meditation Crew will get together at 10:45am PDT/1:45pm EDT. Welcome the weekend with some meditation!

Also, look for Stop. Drop. MEDITATE! requests throughout the day on Twitter - they can come from anyone, anywhere, at any time!

And if you are around later today, look for the #EveningCrew to send out their daily shout-out at 7pm PDT/10pm EDT.

#Wannasit with the #Twangha? Everyone is invited to join in with the #OMCru and all meditative practices are welcome! _/\_

Togetherness Meditation - Day 43

2010-09-02T10:50:00.000-07:00

Today, the midday request for the Online Meditation Crew to come together to share in meditative practice will go out at 12noon PDT/3pm EDT. For the #EveningCrew, the #OMCru will meet up around 7pm PDT/10pm EDT.

If you #wannasit with the #Twangha, Stop. Drop. MEDITATE! with the Crew today! All are always welcome to join in! _/\_

Togetherness Meditation - Day 42 & A Special News Alert

2010-09-01T10:17:00.000-07:00

Today, the_KamikaZen (on Twitter) will be leading togetherness meditation for the Crew at 12noon PDT/3pm EDT. Later in the day, the #EveningCrew will meet up during their regular 7pm PDT/10pm EDT time slot. All are always invited to join in! All meditative practices welcome! _/\_

And now...a very special #OMCru NEWS ALERT:

*100%* of the profits from the Crew's online store will go to Buddha Badges' monthly charity! All T-shirt & sticker designs have been generously donated by the_KamikaZen!

The #OMCru store can be found at http://www.redbubble.com/people/thekamikazen/t-shirts

Please check out our sister site Buddha Badges too: http://www.buddhabadges.com/

Enjoy the day everyone! Namaste!