Category: Newcomers

Getting started and learning the basics

NEW! Body-Dharma Sessions

Posted on by Clare Shah

‘Sensitive to the whole body…’

image: http://sukhibarber.com/

… is one of the Buddha’s ‘pith instructions’. What does it mean to us? How can we become more sensitive to the life of our body and breath?

In an exciting new development for the Centre we are offering a range of classes that integrate yoga and other body based practices with our meditation teaching programme.

All the classes listed are suitable for everyone and are taught by qualified body work practitioners with experienced meditation teachers who are members of the Triratna Buddhist Order.

Part of the generosity economy. Please wear comfortable, loose clothing for these sessions. 

No need to book – just come along to the first session

See individual classes below for more details:

Mon 10-12.15pm six week yoga & meditation course starting Jan 7th

 The emphasis is on releasing body and mind; combining yoga postures, energy flow, mindful breath work, reflection, stillness, ending with led meditation.We will work deeply yet gently as we explore weekly themes: Locating the heart~ softening heart ~ opening heart ~ fearless heart ~ releasing heart ~ boundless heart  You will be guided to notice, become curious about and open and release areas of tension and ‘holding’ as you come into a closer and more receptive relationship with body, mind and heart.

Michelle Healy is a trained yoga teacher interested in how life experiences manifest in the body and curious about what this teaches us & the opportunities this offers us for transformation.

Thurs 10-12.15pm six week course starting Jan 10th

Through the practice of Yoga and meditation, alongside exploring some of the teachings of the Dharma in relation to the body, we will discover together why the Buddha emphasises the body as a way of deepening practice. In these sessions we will practice yoga which will flow into led meditation with some discussion of body related Dharma.

These sessions are offered as a six week block and you are really encouraged to come to them all to gain most from the teaching. The yoga is suitable for complete beginners and is meditative and gentle in its approach, helping to cultivate and rest into an energised calm.

Dharmamrta is a Scaravelli trained yoga teacher and has practiced yoga and meditation for over twenty years.  

Fri 10 – 12.00  and also 5.45 – 7pm 5 week courses starting Jan 11

Body-dharma yoga is a ‘still flowing’ form of Hatha yoga that incorporates Vinyasa flow, Scaravelli inspiration, somatic approach with a ‘practical’ mindfulness. These aid the integration of mind, body and spirit using the yoga of curiosity and letting go.

Trained yoga teacher Advayamati brings his experience of many years practice, leading workshops and retreats that combine shiatsu and energy work with teaching Buddhism and embodied mindfulness.

Also day event Sun Mar 24 – 10 – 5pm – more info on this in the New Year

Learn to Meditate – Thursday Lunchtimes 1-2pm, plus NEW CLASS! Friday lunchtimes from Jan 11

Posted on by Clare Shah

Awareness is revolutionary – Sangharakshita

Our lunchtime drop-in classes are a good way to sample meditation for the first time.  Full instructions given including how to sit comfortably in a chair or on cushions on the floor. We’ll introduce one of our meditation practices – either the mindfulness of breathing which develops calm, focus and wholeheartedness, or a loving kindness (metta bhavana) meditation which develops emotional strength.

There’s no need to book, just come along in time for a prompt 1pm start (doors open 12.45).  We’ll introduce the meditation, then guide you through a practice, and be finished by 2pm.  Stay for a cuppa and chat from 2.00-2.30pm if you can.

No classes Dec 27, Jan 3   Class starts again Jan 10

How much does it cost?
We’re keen to develop a culture of generosity so there is no charge for these sessions, but we’ll invite you to give what you can. Of course you don’t have to give anything if you don’t want or can’t afford to, but we hope you’ll be able to contribute appropriately to the running costs of the centre so more people can benefit.

What should I wear?
You don’t need any special clothes for meditation, just wear comfortable trousers or a loose skirt so you can bend your knees.

What do I need to bring?
You don’t need to bring anything to the class, we have meditation cushions and stools, and will give advice on sitting posture as part of the meditation session.

Do I need any previous experience of meditation?
No, these sessions are suitable for complete beginners.

How can I learn more about meditation?
You can read a little about meditation on our Buddhism & Meditation page, but there’s no substitute for coming along to try it out for yourself!

Doors open 12.45pm.