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Mama Donna's Tea Garden & Healing Haven
is a ceremonial center and ritual consultancy that hosts
a continuing series of ceremonies, drumming circles, celebrations
and seminars. All of these activities serve to focus our
attention to and re-tune our alignment with the universal
cycles of the seasons and the personal cycles of our lives.
When we gather together on "Celestially
Auspicious Occasions" we honor and celebrate our relationship
with each other, the entire universe and our own deepest and
best selves. Such rituals make the ordinary times seem special,
and the special times, extraordinary. They buoy our soul.
Here are the answers to some of the
most commonly asked questions about the circles at Mama Donna's
Tea Garden & Healing Haven:
What is a circle?
As the name implies, a circle is inclusive and round, rather
than linear and frontal. These are not workshops, lectures,
classes or performances. Circles are participatory rituals
where everyone is involved to the degree to which they feel
comfortable.
Do I have to say/do anything?
Yes and no. There is no point in coming if you are resistant.
But at the same time, there is no pressure to participate
more than you choose. In every group, there are those who
talk more than others. This is fine and normal. And there
are always new people attending, so you would never be the
only one here for the first time.
What exactly happens?
Every ritual is different. They each reflect the unique energy
of the day, of the season and the particular combination of
people. Sometimes they are silly, sometimes poignant, always
empowering and spiritually profound.
Do I need my own drum?
No. We have a selection of drums and percussion instruments
from around the world. But if you do have a drum or favorite
percussion instrument, it is good to bring it.
Do I need to be an accomplished
drummer?
No. The emphasis here is on drumming up the spirit, not on
proficiency. Anyway, you'll be surprised by just how wonderful
you will sound, and more important, by how fabulous you will
feel!
Do I need to chant? (I have
a lousy voice.)
No. You will never have to do anything that makes you uncomfortable.
However, chanting is a marvelous tool for tranceformation.
It is a great way to release toxins and tension. And once
we are drumming and chanting, no one will be listening to
you! So take the opportunity and allow yourself the chance
to get carried away on the audible vibrations of your spirit.
Do I need special clothes?
No. Every once in a while, I ask that you wear a specific
color or bring a certain kind of prop. This creates a unifying
visual and intentional bond among the group and intensifies
our immersion in the theme of the ceremony.
Can both women and men attend
circles?
Yes. Most ceremonies are open to anyone. Very occasionally,
special circles are offered for women only.
In order to make your experience
here more fruitful, please be aware of the following considerations:
If you have made a reservation and
later find that you will not be able to attend the circle,
please call to cancel. We wait until everyone
has arrived before beginning so that the ceremony will not
be interrupted once it has begun. So please do show respect
for the group and let us know if you won't be here.
Be prompt. We can
not emphasize this enough. Please plan to arrive 10-15 minutes
before the event is scheduled to begin. This will give you
enough time to attend to business, browse in the shop and
relax into the mood of the evening.
If you have any more questions, please
do not hesitate to call us at (718) 857-2247. I
am looking forward to sitting in ceremony with you. And
in the meantime, I send you sensational season's blessings,
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