When staying at a Sangharama, lay visitors are encouraged to observe the following guidelines to support their practice and harmonize with the monastic community:

1. Duration of Stay

• Short-Term Visits: Nauyana Monastery welcomes laypeople for short-term stays, often up to a couple of weeks i.e, 14 days.
• Long-Term Aspirants: Those considering ordination or extended practicemay be permitted longer stays, typically starting with a 30-day period, which can be extended based on logistics and adherence to monastic guidelines.

2. Precepts and Conduct

These precepts are the moral guardrails that serve as protection for the dhamma practice of the individual, paving the way for deeper purification of the heart.

• Five Precepts: All visitors should observe the Five Precepts: refraining from taking life, stealing, sexual misconduct, false speech, and intoxicants.
• Eight Precepts: During retreats or on observance days, lay practitioners are encouraged to observe the Eight Precepts, which include celibacy, refraining from eating after midday, entertainment, body adornment and sleeping on luxurious or high bed.

3. Commitment to Practice of Dhamma

• Dedication: Dedicate regular time each day to meditation practice and Dhamma study.
• Participation: Participate in group meditation sessions and attend Dhamma talks to deepen your understanding and experience of the teachings.

4. Respectful Interaction with the Monastic Community

• Monastic Etiquette: Show courtesy and respect when interacting with monastics, fellow practitioners and monastery residents, and avoid physical contact, especially with members of the opposite sex.
• Silence and Solitude: Maintain noble silence during designated times and respect others’ need for quiet and solitude.

5. Openness to Guidance and Self-Reflection

• Be receptive to advice and instruction from experienced practitioners and teachers.
• Regularly engage in self-reflection to foster personal growth and deepen your spiritual practice.

6. Appropriate Attire and Demeanor

• Modesty: Dress modestly and appropriately for the monastic setting, reflecting respect for the sacred atmosphere.
• Specific Attire: Lay practitioners are encouraged to wear plain, preferably white garments. A clothing that covers shoulders and knees; avoid tight or revealing attire and flashy outfits. Keep it plain, simple and comfortable.
• Demeanor: Carry yourself with humility, openness, and a spirit of service, embodying the teachings of the Dhamma.

7. Simplicity and Mindful Living

• Simplicity: Embrace a simple lifestyle by minimizing material attachments. Accommodations are basic, reflecting the monastic emphasis on simplicity.
• Living: Maintain a clean, orderly living space that reflects the values of simplicity and mindfulness.
• Meditation Spaces: Keep silence or speak softly in designated meditation and study areas to preserve a tranquil atmosphere.
• Common Spaces: Follow any specific instructions regarding the use of common areas to ensure a harmonious environment for all.
• Personal Items: Use of high-power electrical devices is restricted.

8. Meals

• Offering: Participate in meal offerings to monastics, acknowledging that monks and nuns typically eat once or twice before midday.
• Dietary Restrictions: Be prepared for simple, vegetarian meals unless otherwise specied.

9. Communication

• Permission: Seek permission before using electronic devices, taking photographs, or recording.
• Mindful Speech: Engage in speech that is truthful, harmonious, and beneficial; Refrain from engaging in gossip or divisive speech; observe periods of silence as required.

10. Health and Safety

• Self-Sufciency: Bring necessary personal medications and inform the monastery of any health concerns.
• Awareness: Be mindful of local wildlife and environmental conditions of the monastery.

11. Active Participation and Service

• Contribute to the upkeep and smooth running of the community through voluntary service such as cleaning, meal preparation, or assisting in organizing group activities.
• Recognize that your contributions help sustain a supportive and compassionate environment.

12. Monastery’s Daily Schedule ( Indicative )

• 4:00 am – Wake up, Exercise
• 4:30 am – Group meditation
• 6:00 am – Alms round (where practiced) or breakfast
• 8:00 am – Personal meditation, study, or seclusion
• 9:30 am – Interview
• 10:50 am – Main meal
• 12:00 pm – Rest
• 1:00 pm – Walking meditation, study
• 5:00 pm – Refreshment
• 6:00 pm – Personal meditation, study, or seclusion
• 10:00 pm – Lights Out

13. What to Bring

• Personal items
• Bedding (if needed)
• Notebook and Stationaries
• Personal Medicines and supplements
• Umbrella
• Torch
• Alarm clock
• Mosquito repellent

These are general guidelines for the lay yogis visiting Sangharama. By following these guidelines, you can cultivate a balanced practice that supports both your personal development and the collective harmony.

In case of any doubt, please feel free to reach out to us before your visit.