Did you know that Pythagoras founded a mystic monastic order and introduced the concept of reincarnation in the Western world? For the duration of July I will be exploring the potential of the Pythagorean lifestyle and I am inviting you to join me in this exciting new adventure. Think of it as an online retreat where we could meet on zoom twice weekly, at 11am (London time) to contemplate a Pythagorean theme and again at 7:15pm for a session exploring ritual and the use of music as medicine. The programme below, adapted from the "The Complete Pythagoras", is offered as a guideline for you to follow as much or as little as you see fit. Check it out and get in touch if you would like to join me in this experiential learning journey. Thank you.
Pythagorean Daily Programme
Morning
- Wake up early, ideally before sunrise
- As soon as you awake, in order lay the actions to be done the coming day.
- Wash yourself and tidy up your environment to purify your space
- A solitary morning walk to a quiet place in nature or somewhere you consider sacred. Walk mindfully, aware of your movements and connecting with the sacredness of the natural world.
- Only speak after having gained inner serenity and a focused state of mind
- Online gathering to discuss a Pythagorean theme and reflect on lifestyle
- Dedicate time to the health and the strengthening of the body (yoga, tai chi, chi gung, etc.)
Lunch
- Bread and honey in moderation
- Receiving guests
Afternoon
- Walk in nature with one or two people sharing your learning about Pythagoreanism
- Enjoy a nice bath and allow yourself to be blessed, cleansed and healed by the water
- Online gathering (limited to ten) for a Pythagorean inspired ritual
Evening Meal
- Before the setting of the sun
- Vegan or vegetarian: raw and boiled herbs, maize, wine, bread. Herbal tea.
At Night
- Readings from Pythagoras e.g. "The speech of the people is various, now good, and now evil, so let them not frighten you, nor keep you from your purpose" - Golden Verses
Before Sleep
- Review what you did throughout the day. Where have I let myself down? What did I? What duty have I neglected? If you have acted improperly allow yourself to regret it. Similarly, remember to rejoice for all that was good.
- Examine all your actions of the day. Wherein have I gone off the right path? What have I done? What have I omitted that I ought to have done? If in this examination you find that you have moved away from what is proper or desirable, reprimand yourself for it; And if you have done any good, rejoice.
Sleep
- Sleep on a white and pure bed with covers made of linen, not wool.