38 MORE DAYS

The countdown begins! It's 38 more days to the Aloka Novitiate 2010 which will start in Kushinara and proceed to Sravasti before ending in Lumbini.

ARE YOU PREPARED?

Some tips to prepare yourself for the Novitiate Programme:

• Don't overwork yourselves to the eve of the departure date. Phase out your work as early as possible so that you don't exhaust yourself prior to the trip
• Sleep early and wake up early
• Cut down on food intake in the evening
• Get accustomed to sitting long period on the floor. Start sitting cross legged on floor or flat seat when watching TV or reading
• Exercise more and be healthy
• Learn chanting and meditation. Start to meditate at least 30 minutes a day
• Talk less. Cut down on idle chatter
• Acquaint yourself with wearing sarong at home

Some other things to note:

• Upasikas who are shaving must get permission from spouse or parents
• Upasikas shaving must cut hair short -- recommended above shoulder length for easy and speedier shaving in India
• Samaneras and upasikas must bring one set of white attire (top & pants) for shaving & ordination ceremony
• Samaneras can choose their sponsors who will present robes to them. Inform Aloka office otherwise, sponsors will be appointed for you