Centering

Followers of Gasyenditha, especially those trained in martial arts by the monks of Xosuyel Vold Monastery learn techniques of meditative prayer known as "centering." Centering is a form a meditation, but it is more than that. It is also a form of prayer, calling on Gasyenditha for aid in remaining calm and focused. Long-time practitioners of centering are able to remain calm in extreme, even life-threatening circumstances, and maintain focus on taking whatever actions that they can to survive or succeed. One of the teachings of the monks of Gasyenditha on centering says, "Fear and anxiousness do not add to one's life; rather, seek peace and discipline." Often, Gasyendithites carry an object, in some ways like the Omphalos of a Magus, to help them focus while practicing the centering ritual. The object can take most any form, but it is usually something to which the Gasyendithite has an emotional attachment. Sometimes, it is a reminder of a place where he or she feels especially calm and at peace.

Execution

The Gasyendithite practitioner typically finds an isolated place without distractions to perform the customs and rituals of centering. While centering, the Gasyendithite focuses on his or her inner state, identifying emotions of fear, anxiety, worry, apprehension, and others that disturb focus, deflect attention, and upset physical equilibrium. Using techniques to perceive elevated heartrate and other physical signs of distress or disturbance, Gasyendithites are able to calm themselves physically, mentally, and emotionally. While centered, the Gasyendithite experiences heightened creativity, greater strength, flexibility, quickness, and speed. Advanced practitioners of centering are able to maintain their center in extreme situations of physical danger and emotional distress. This makes them both exceptionally safe and exceptionally dangerous. As friends and allies, Gasyendithites are loyal protectors and supporters. As enemies, Gasyendithites are indefatigable foes and implacable opponents. Their ability to center themselves and maintain equilibrium and focus, as well as their other teaching and training, is what makes them so.

Observance

Gesyendithites practice centering wherever and whenever they are able, or they feel the need to do so. At times, that will be even be in the middle a battle or confrontation fraught with danger and emotion. The Gasyendithite may pause, take some deep breaths, and maybe even close his or her eyes for a moment to regain center and focus. This moment of centering often is the difference between life and death, failure and success.