Sufism is a 1,400-year-old discipline that teaches self-knowledge. Tamarkoz is a Sufi practice; it is the vehicle by which one can progress towards discovering their true and stable self. Tamarkoz is the Sufi art and science of self-knowledge through heart concentration and meditation.

Tamarkoz involves several elements, which students will experience each week through a guided meditation practice. The elements of Tamarkoz include: mind relaxation exercises, deep breathing exercises, slow movement meditation, deep body relaxation, visualization and heart concentration. Tamarkoz is a heart-based or heart-focused meditation practice - this is its hallmark and differentiates it from other meditative practices. In Sufism, the heart is the link between our physical and eternal realms, and the gateway to accessing the knowledge and wisdom which resides within us.

Tamarkoz is a powerful stress-management technique. It is a holistic, practical and sustainable means to help recover and maintain balance, wholeness, well-being and discipline in all aspects of life.

Students are expected to attend class, establish/maintain a personal Sufi meditation practice, do the required readings, keep a reflective journal and submit a final reflective paper. Please read the whole syllabus to learn more about the class: bit.ly/TamarkozSyllabusSpring2025

Although the teachings of this class are rooted in the 1,400-year-old practice of Islamic Sufism, anyone can practice and benefit from Tamarkoz regardless of background, beliefs and/or ability. No prior experience with meditation is necessary. All are warmly welcome.

**Students must bring an exercise (or yoga) mat to each Tamarkoz practice session.**

Our class enrolls students on a first-come first served basis, according to the timestamp on the Tamarkoz DeCal Enrollment Interest Form: http://bit.ly/TamarkozSpring2025Reg. Serious applicants only please! All interested students must complete the application/Google Form. We will contact you in late-January with the instructions on how to register for this DeCal in CalCentral OR your waitlist status. Class will begin on Friday, February 7.