Samani Prasanna Pragya | Samani Rohit Pragya |
Samani Prasanna Pragya and Samani Rohit Pragya were invited by Niko Niko Centre which is one of the branches of Oki Yoga Centre in Rimini to conduct a Preksha meditation and Jainism workshop. Samanijis stayed in Rimini from 17th-21st September in the house of Daniela and Antonio, directors of Niko Niko Centre.
On 19th September Samanijis visited the place where the Master Yuji Yahiro lives with his family. They met him for two hours and discussed Jainism, Buddhism and Preksha meditation. The Samanijis told him about Jain Vishwa Bharati London and presented a book ”The Family and The Nation” written by Acharya Mahapragya and APJ Abdul Kalam to him. Master Yuji Yahiro shared his experience of meditation and also discussed his new plans and projects. He requested the Samanijis to plan Preksha Meditation camps in various centers of Oki Yoga, located in Rimini as well as in nearby cities of Italy.
On 20th September, a Preksha meditation and Jainism workshop was organized at Niko Niko Centre which was attended by nearly 30 people. Daniela began the workshop by introducing the Samanijis. Antonio then led a yoga class. Samani Prasanna Pragya spoke about the importance of Preksha meditation followed by the recitation of Mangal Bhavana and Anand Bhavana in their original language, along with Italian and English translations. Samani Rohit Pragya spoke about the importance of Mantra meditation and conducted a session of Mantra recitation as well as Preksha meditation. Samani Prasanna Pragya led a Kayotsarga Class. After practising relaxation, participants felt a lightness in their bodies and a peace of mind.
After lunch, the second session commenced with a talk on Jainism followed by the DVD Show of ”Jain Nuns”. It was the first chance for participants to learn about the lifestyle of Jain nuns. Practical sessions of mantra chanting and meditation were also held in the afternoon session. Information regarding the International Preksha Meditation Camp, conducted every year in India was given by Samaniji to all participants. Samaniji also mentioned the course of training in non-violence which is going to be held at Jain Vishva Bharati London in November 2009. Participants showed their interest in joining this course, resulting in 13 people deciding to come to London to attend this workshop. The workshop was concluded with a Q&A session. For many people, it was their first opportunity to meet Jain nuns so they asked many questions regarding the Jain ascetic lifestyle. They were impressed by the restraints which Samanijis observe. All the sessions were translated into Italian by John, president of international Oki Yoga centre.
On 21 September, Samanijis visited another branch of Oki Yoga, located in Pajaro (Italy). In the evening, a meditation session was held at the house of Daniela for family members and friends. Around 20 people attended the session and enjoyed meditation. The Samanijis’ trip in Italy was very successful as many people showed an interest in Preksha meditation.