These 'Open Sessions' are for anyone who is interested in learning to meditate - just turn up. We introduce two meditations on alternate evenings. The Mindfulness of Breathing is a meditation practice that helps to focus and calm the mind. The Metta Bhavana, development of loving-kindness, is a meditation that develops a warm and open heartedness. Guidance is available to find a posture that suits you. The evening normally will start with a meditation, followed by a tea break and then an aspect of Buddhism is introduced and discussed.
The meditation sessions last 25-30 minutes and are 'guided', i.e. the class leader gives guidance on what you should do at each stage. The teaching sessions are group based with time for questions, discussion and getting to know the other people attending. During the tea break you can talk and meet the class team and other class members. After the tea break we normally have a short introduction to an aspect to Buddhism and there is time to have discussion.
These classes are also an ideal preparation for our Part I Buddhism and Meditation course, as they give you the opportunity to become familiar with the atmosphere of the Centre and the people you will meet there.
Classes are led by members of the Western Buddhist Order.
Newcomers' Night starts at 7.30pm and ends at 10.00pm. We offer the first night free and then donations accepted, £7 suggested.
We now have two early morning meditation sessions that start at 7.30am and finish at 8.20am. If you are an early riser come along and start your day with a meditation. Suggested donation £3.
Introducing our two meditations - open to all. Reinvigorate your day with the fresh energy from a meditation session. We offer the first day free and then £3 suggested or donation.
We offer 6 week Meditation and Buddhism courses where you can systematically learn two meditations and explore Buddhist practices and ideas that support a creative balanced lifestyle. The idea is that you will go on this ‘journey’ with the same group of people each week, getting to know them and benefitting from mutual support. Each evening begins with a short topic on meditation, a meditation session, a break for tea and then an exploration of an aspect of Buddhism. There is plenty of time for questions and discussion. 'Part I' courses start on the following dates in 2010:
And then...
'Part II' follow-on courses are available. Many people find it beneficial to do the 'Part I' course more than once.
The six-week courses cost £65/£55. They are led by members of the Western Buddhist Order.
