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Photographs taken with a bridge camera journaling nature and everyday life in Central Massachusetts.

Mindfulness

Photographs from a visit to the grounds of the Barre Center For Buddhist Studies in Barre, Massachusetts.

At the Barre Center for Buddhist Studies in Barre, MA thoughtful landscaping and architecture are designed to encourage reflection and contemplation in or out of doors.
Stone walls, sturdy trees, benches and other wooden elements recur throughout the grounds. Circular and domed shapes enhance architectural elements.
The large domed bell with striker is hung from a aged tree. In Buddhism, the bell is sometimes said to be the sound of the Buddha’s voice.
A dome-shaped stupa (a Buddhist monument housing sacred relics associated with the Buddha) is surrounded by greenery and stone walls.
The Meditation Hall features large circular windows. Circles are associated with enlightenment in Buddhist thought.
Wooden floors and exposed beams enhance the inside of the hall.
  • Pillows or benches are used for meditation.
  • The meditation bowl, or singing bowl, is rung to signify the beginning and end of meditation.
The vegetable garden is enclosed by a handmade willow fence. Garden sections are now being planted, as the Center will welcome on-site students once again this fall.
A wooden Thai Spirit House sits at the edge of the garden.

About the author jmankowsky

This photo blog features the seasonal changes in nature observed in my own backyard and a variety of local environments. The Wachusett Meadow Audubon Sanctuary in Princeton, MA is often highlighted as a model for the positive effects a small nature preserve can have on the larger environment and the local community. Local sites of historical, cultural and recreational interest are spotlighted as well. All photographs were taken by me. Thank you so much for visiting.

All posts by jmankowsky →

16 Comments

  1. Jay Michaels July 28, 2021 at 6:55 PM

    This is my favorite. I grew up in Barre before this was here. I visited once and I love this beautiful sanctuary!
    Thank you
    Namaste

    Jay Michaels

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

    1. jmankowsky July 28, 2021 at 8:46 PM

      I feel so lucky to have a place such as this so nearby!

      Like

      Reply

  2. Jay Michaels July 28, 2021 at 6:57 PM

    Thank you for this beautiful collection of photos. Just what my soul needed today

    Sent from my iPhone -Jay Michaels http://www.theharperandtheminstrel.com

    >

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

    1. jmankowsky July 28, 2021 at 8:45 PM

      Just wonderful to hear from you, Jay! Glad you enjoyed this, and hope you have managed through these difficult times.
      Kindest Regards,
      Julie

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      Reply

    1. jmankowsky July 29, 2021 at 7:51 PM

      Really calming and peaceful…

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply

  4. Laurie Graves July 28, 2021 at 11:38 PM

    Very beautiful and tranquil! Your wonderful pictures do a beautiful job of illustrating the peace and tranquility of the center.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

    1. jmankowsky July 29, 2021 at 7:50 PM

      Thank you for your kind words!

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply

  5. bayphotosbydonna July 30, 2021 at 11:28 PM

    How lovely and serene, very nice captures, Julie!

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    1. jmankowsky July 31, 2021 at 8:37 PM

      Thanks, Donna. “Serene” is the perfect word for it!

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply

  6. Jet Eliot August 4, 2021 at 8:24 AM

    The Barre Center looks divine, Julie, and your photos and narrative were the perfect introduction to this peaceful place.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

    1. jmankowsky August 5, 2021 at 9:03 PM

      Thanks for your kind words, Jet. Your visit is much appreciated!

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply

  7. naturebackin August 6, 2021 at 9:37 AM

    It looks to be a place of healing serenity. Lovely.

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    Reply

    1. jmankowsky August 6, 2021 at 9:16 PM

      It’s really peaceful. I didn’t take photos of inside the main house. Anyone can go in and read books on spiritual matters there, or check them out on the honor system. There’s always hot water for herbal tea going, and plenty of different sitting spaces to complement those outdoors.

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply

      1. naturebackin August 7, 2021 at 1:01 AM

        What a wonderfully welcoming space.

        Liked by 1 person

  8. Jessica Hagan August 12, 2021 at 3:37 PM

    Looks like a beautifully peaceful place!

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    Reply

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