Sanskrit Word of the Day: SANGHA

by Gail Allen

Are you one of those people who loves learning *just enough* of something to be “dangerous??” For sure, Gail and Danielle are two such people! We both have a travel bug and that turns into a love and passion for learning about other cultures. Both of us find ourselves knowing bits and pieces of languages to perhaps be somewhat conversational without being offensive, but not enough to even pretend to be fluent! There are so many great words in languages other than English that describe matters of the heart. One such word is Sangha! ​

When I (Gail) first heard that word, it was years ago when a friend opened a studio and used it in the title. It was different enough to get my attention and need to look it up… and it also concreted her studio name in my head! Sangha is such a beautiful word that Thic Nhat Hanh used to describe it as “beloved spiritual community” and goes far beyond the idea of any one group. In America, we might translate this as “church” or “fellowship” but that also loses something in translation. It’s the idea that you belong. That you matter. That your brother on your left and your sister on your right are fully, one hundred percent on your side and will help, support, and challenge you to grow! Your ride or die clan, perhaps even! You may or may not share biological ties, family history, or even physical space - but that doesn’t matter, you have your own special bond with each other. ​

Here’s the really great part about it…. you can and do belong to many Sangha, simultaneously and throughout your life. When you meet members of your Sangha, you might know right away or you might grow to love and accept them. You might just “click” or you might think … oh no...not this person as my partner! (I’m looking at you, Danielle :-D But that’s a story for another time.)
​  
We LOVE that each of you are part of our Sangha at Audacious Wellness Academy… and we love that we’re a part of yours! We love the thought of your Sanghas continuing to grow and evolve. Psychology and Sociology tells us that people who are part of a loving, spiritual community are overall happier and healthier! And that is exactly what we’re here for. So again: Welcome. We are so glad you’re here!