Meditation Classes

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Introductory classes - Learn How to Meditate
xxxx Buddhist Center offers a variety of introductory meditation classes.

The introductory classes and guided meditations are an excellent introduction to the practical applications of Buddhist thought and practice. They offer very simple meditations that you can use to gain some peace and clarity, as well as a clear introduction to the Buddhist way of life.
Introductory classes are designed to give a broad introduction to Buddhist meditation, ideas, and practice. The classes combine guided meditation with practical spiritual advice that you can immediately put into practice as a method for eliminating daily stress and other problems you may be experiencing.

The classes are open to those who are able to attend only occasionally, as well as to those who want to follow a systematic series of classes.

What to expect in a class
Introductory classes begin with a simple guided meditation exercise to reduce stress, tension, and distractions. This is followed by a short lecture on how to apply Buddhist principles into daily life. The class then breaks for informal group discussions, followed by a question and answer session. Finally, there is a guided meditation designed to help us gain deeper experience of the subject of the class.

After the class there is a chance to enjoy snacks and refreshments while relaxing or discussing the ideas presented in the teaching with other participants.

You do not need any previous experience to attend these classes. Also, you do not need to pre-register. All you need to do is choose a class and show up!

Why not come along and see for yourself what meditation can do for you?

If you are interested in studying Buddha's teachings at a deeper level, please see the program of courses.

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What Is Meditation?
Meditation is a method for making your mind calm and peaceful. When your mind is peaceful you are free from worries and mental discomfort, and you are able to experience true happiness. If you train your mind to become peaceful you shall be happy all the time, even in the most difficult circumstances. If your mind is not peaceful, even if you have the most pleasant external conditions you will find it difficult to be really happy.

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Meditation - What is it?
Meditation is a method for changing our state of mind from a negative to a positive one - from anger to love and compassion; emotional turmoil to peace and contentment. If we wish to experience happiness, and we recognize that happiness is a state of mind, we can see that if it is necessary to change our mind. This is what meditation helps us to do.

There are many different types of meditation available nowadays. In Buddhist meditation we begin with breathing meditation to calm our mind. Then we meditate on specific qualities, or attitudes, such as cherishing others, love, and compassion.

The more familiar we are with positive, peaceful states of mind, the calmer we become. Eventually by training our mind to become peaceful, we will be happy all the time, even in the most difficult circumstances. The opposite is also true - if our mind is not peaceful, then even when we experience wonderful external conditions, we will not be happy.

There are so many positive results that come from a regular meditation practice.

• We find it easier to cope with the ups and downs of everyday life

• we experience less stress

• our concentration improves

• our relationships with others become more comfortable and fulfilling.

Buddhist practice is very gentle, it does not require physical deprivation and hardship. Buddha shows a comfortable and happy path, which is mainly concerned with the internal task of controlling and transforming the mind. Through meditation we will experience a sense of inner peace and relaxation. Our mind will feel lucid and spacious and we will feel refreshed. If we practise patiently, gradually our distracting and negative thoughts will subside and we shall be able to to concentrate on the thoughts and states of mind that bring real happiness.