traveling companions - Ataturk Airport |
She gave a short demonstration and explanation of Sufi turning as a way to focus inward on God and cast off one's worldly attachments.
Then we set an intention of peace and healing for the people of Istanbul and used a large circle of prayer beads to "count," and unite us while calling on Allah to open ourselves to these possibilities. Allah is the Arabic name for the Divine.
More information about turning practice can be found in the book Women Called to the Path of Rumi: The Way of the Whirling Dervish by trip leader and teacher, Shakina Reinhertz.