A Day for Women: Fierce and Steady Practice

Join Tibetan Buddhist nun Ani Choyang for an intimate afternoon of meditation, reflection, and connection. All women are welcome. After her free public talk on Thursday November 5, you are invited to join Venerable Ani Choyang at UNC Asheville on Saturday, November 7 for a free half-day meditation retreat for women, marking the close of her national Hidden Happiness Tour in Asheville. Whether you've meditated for decades or have never sat down to try, you're welcome here. No experience is needed, only a willingness to be present. Ani Choyang is a Tibetan Buddhist nun ordained under the Dalai Lama, who escaped Tibet in her teens and has become a voice for women's education and leadership in Buddhism. After 22+ years of Buddhist Studies, she will soon attain her Geshema degree (equivalent to a PhD) and has also trained in science with a concentration on neuroscience at Emory and Northwestern Universities. She brings both ancient wisdom and contemporary science into her teaching. Through sitting practice, guided reflection, and shared conversation, we'll explore two qualities women have long carried: a fierce courage that can meet anger, fear, and loss without turning away, and a steady groundedness that makes room for others to do the same. This will be a gentle, unhurried gathering, and you're free to participate in whatever way feels right to you. Think of it as seeds rather than a harvest; what grows from the afternoon will depend on who comes and what each of you brings. Saturday, Nov 7, 1:00-4:00 pm Wilma M. Sherrill Center, Meditation Room (room 468)- UNC Asheville, One University Heights, Asheville, NC Wear comfortable clothing. Chairs and cushions will be provided, though you are welcome to bring your own, if you prefer. Space is limited to 20 participants. Directions: GPS should bring you right to the Wilma M. Sherrill Center where there will be signs directing you to the Meditation Room on the upper level. Parking: Drop-off is available in front of the building. There should also be parking available in the Sherrill Center Parking Deck (P9), or in the lots across the street. All visitors need a $3 parking permit. Register online before you arrive (your license plate is your pass). Check out our Campus Map for more detailed directions.