This actually wasn’t our first sit together; it was just our first meeting at the hotel conference room. We’ve sat many times before.

I agree - we need to up the time. When we began late last year, we sat 15 minutes, walked 5, then sat for another 15. We did this because we were all out of practice, and hadn’t been sitting regularly. However, at this point, I think we need to increase the time to 20-30 minutes.

Also, good point about the discussing during the break. I’ll bring it up next week at our meeting; perhaps we can save all of our discussion for after our sit. That of course depends on how long everyone wants to stick around, but I’d be up for it.

Thanks for the encouragement!

Couple of reflections - take ‘em or leave ‘em…

I wonder if 15 minute sessions are long enough? Look, it’s much better to be sitting for any time rather than none! My experience is that I struggle to sit at home for more than, say 20-25 minutes (I’m deeply undisciplined) but with the presence and encouragement of a group, I really don’t struggle at all with our two 30-minute sessions. And on those times when I do struggle a bit, it’s the presence of the others with me that gets me through it. I’m not saying you should all jump straight in and do a hour’s sit each night, but I just wonder if two 15-minute sessions aren’t a little ‘bitty’. Perhaps one 30-minute session? Just a thought.
If you’re going to have a break, might it not be a good idea to not talk in the middle, but perhaps just take a few minutes to stretch your legs quietly, etc, maybe a few mins walking meditation, and then get back to sitting? I’d worry that my mind would race off in the second session with all the groovy stuff we’d been discussing!
Jeff seems like a good sort! If weekly meetings at his place are more convenient than a trek out of town each week, it’ll be easier to get your head down & your arse on the cushion
Small steps!
All the best to you and the rest of your group.