SPECIAL ZOOM CLASS CONSIDERATIONS

Sitting a class via Zoom comes with added conveniences and challenges. On the one hand, you will practice from the safety and comfort of home. On the other hand, unlike when meditating at a retreat center or meditation hall, many habits of distraction surround you.  We ask that you take some special care to create a safe and respectful container for yourself, the teachers, and the sangha.

Here are some specific suggestions:

 For Zoom

  • Use your device for Zoom only—turn off all other programs. Give yourself the gift of not multi-tasking.

  • When you enter the Zoom meetings, your mic will be muted. For A Year to Live class series your are welcome to unmute and chat with other sangha members before class, but remember to mute yourself when the class begins at 10:00 am.

  • Please keep your Video (camera) turned on as much as possible. If you need to move around turn the camera off and then turn it back on when you are settled. This helps maintain a sense of connection for you, Anna, and the sangha. Exception: If you have low connectivity, you are invited to turn off your camera for a better internet connection.

  • Remember that other people can see you during a meditation or group discussion. Even if you have chosen personal settings that limit who you see (e.g. “Speaker View’), you are still visible to others on their screens. Avoid any activity that could distract or otherwise interfere with the experience of another sangha member. This would includes moving around, engaging with others, pets wandering into view, and eating. If there are physical issues where you need to stand up or walk around, please take care of your body.

  • Do not use the “Chat” unless specifically invited to do so by the teacher(s). Exception: If you are having a technical issue, please alert the host via “Chat.”

  • The teacher will be Spotlighted and during this class series, and those asking questions will be spotlighted and will appear beside her as well for the Q&A and sharing.

  • During Q&A or Sharing, we will be using the Raise Hand feature for more visibility in this Zoom format. To raise your hand, click on the icon labeled "Participants" at the bottom center of your PC screen. At the bottom of the window on the right side of the screen, click the button labeled "Raise Hand." Your digital hand is now raised. Lower it by clicking the same button, now labeled "Lower Hand."

Preparing for the Class

  • If possible, set up a quiet space in your home for the class without the distraction of others and pets. This is your meditation hall.

  • Please arrive for each session 10 minutes early and take the time to settle and "land." Be ready to start promptly.

  • Modify or turn off cell phones, house phones, and any other devices that might call to you.

  • Aim camera away from moving ceiling fans.

  • For the meditation, use seating similar to what you would find at a retreat center: Establish a sitting posture that balances comfort and alertness.

  • If you live with others, make a communication plan. Under what circumstances should they talk with you?