Observing Uposatha

Yesterday was the first time I have observed Uposatha/Full Moon observance. Wow! Since I was off for Columbus Day I took the opportunity to spend the day in meditation, chanting, and reading. The actually full moon is today but based on all I have read on the observance yesterday was an acceptable day to observe the full moon.

My day began at 4 a.m. with meditation and chanting. I continued all day with a mixture of reading, chanting, walking and sitting meditation, mindfulness and loving kindness meditation.

I took the eight precepts which include three more practices beyond the five I take everyday and one that is just an augment, if you will, being a vow of celibacy as opposed to the vow to abstain from sexual misconduct.

1. Not to participate in any forms of dancing, singing or music.
2. Not to take any meals or solid food after 12:00 noon
3. not to sleep in high beds or sit on high seats.

I have to say that I had so much energy. I thought I would be board and eventually just find myself twiddling my thumbs but that was not the case. I had more than enough to do, so much so I had to force myself to get to bed. My fiance was kind enough to let me sleep on the air mattress on the floor so I was able to keep all eight precepts for the day.

This experience was wonderful and I am glad I had the chance to do it. It was probably the best thing I could do for my mental and emotional well being.