Sravasti Abbey — the Tibetan Buddhist monastery near Newport — invites friends and newcomers to come Dec. 2, for a talk about “A Healthy Diet for the Mind.” The talk is part of the monthly Sharing the Dharma Day, and is based on “An Open-Hearted Life”, a book published by Shambhala and co-written by Venerable Thubten Chodron, Sravasti Abbey founder and abbess, and clinical psychologist Dr. Russell Kolts. All are welcome.

The day’s schedule also includes a guided meditation, vegetarian potluck lunch, facilitated discussion on the topic, as well as celebration of Lama Tsongkhapa; one of Tibetan Buddhism’s greatest scholars and yogis. It’s also the day the abbey joins with faith united to prevent gun violence congregations across the U.S. in a candlelight vigil.

The program is offered freely, and donations as well as food offerings for the resident nuns and monk are welcomed.

The first session begins at 9:45 a.m., potluck lunch is at noon, and the program ends at 3 p.m. Please bring food to share for lunch, avoiding onions, garlic, and leeks as well as meat, fish, or chicken. Dress is casual, although modesty is appropriate for a monastic environment. Short skirts and shorts are discouraged.

Sravasti Abbey is located at 692 Country Lane, Newport. For more information and directions call 509-447-5549 or email office.sravasti@gmail.com. Find additional information about Sravasti Abbey at Sravasti.org.