Daily Routine

Nasalam is a spiritual community, so our daily routine includes certain spiritual practices. Following this routine is vital to the success of achieving our goals as it is important for the energy of the community to move in synch as much as possible.

7 a.m. -- Morning meditation. (We generally observe silence before this begins.) This is thirty minutes of silent meditation. It might be preceded by a Salutation to the Sun or gentle exercises according to personal preference. After meditation is a good time to discuss topics of interest, including work that needs to be done for the day. It's also a good time to bring up any personal issues. This is followed by breakfast, which is usually very informal.

Noon -- This is our main meal of the day. It is preceded by a short ritual to express thanks for our food. This includes a dedication to our spiritual growth and includes some chanting. This is an important part of our spiritual work.

6 p.m. -- (roughly) our evening meal, which is usually a light meal.

8 p.m. -- On evenings when massage is scheduled it is generally done at this time.

9 p.m. -- Evening meditation. This begins with the same chant used with the noon meal and ends after thirty minutes with a series of seven OMs. We generally retire fairly early, to be ready for an early start the next day.

During the day, whether during the morning or afternoon hours, there is work to be done. Depending on the time of year it might be gardening, cutting wood, building, or any other projects that contribute to living in the country and growing the community. All residents are expected to participate in the work that needs to be done.

Anyone unable or unwilling to conform to this daily routine will be asked to leave the community.