Meditation classes
'Problem solving' - Positive ways to deal with difficult situations
6 week series starting week beginning Feb 20th. You don't have to attend the whole series, you can drop in at any time.
This series will be based mainly on the book 'How to Solve our Human Problems' by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso.
It will explore the following themes:
- How the mind creates problems
- How to develop a more realistic, accepting view of life
- How to remain calm in difficult situations and act positively
- How to deal with painful feelings eg. anxiety
- How to actually transform difficulties to our advantage
'When things go wrong in our life and we encounter difficult situations, we tend to regard the situation itself as the problem, but in reality whatever problems we experience come from the mind. If we were to respond to difficulties with a positive or peaceful mind, they would not be problems for us; indeed we may even come to regard them as challenges or opportunities for growth and development. Problems arise only if we respond to situations with a negative state of mind. Therefore, if we want to transform our life and be free from problems, we must learn to transform our mind'
Geshe Kelsang Gyatso
Each class will also include 2 relaxing guided meditations and advice on how to meditate.
The classes are suitable for beginners and people with more experience. They are suitable for everyone, regardless of religious background. You do not need to book and can just drop in at any time.
Why meditate?
The purpose of meditation is to make our mind calm and peaceful.
If our mind is peaceful we shall be free from worries and mental discomfort, and so we shall experience true happiness; but if our mind is not peaceful, we shall find is very difficult to be happy, even if we are living in the very best conditions.
Training in meditation helps us to develop an inner space and clarity that enables us to control our mind regardless of the external circumstances. Gradually we can learn to rely upon peace within our mind and can learn to be happy all the time.Click here to read more about the benefits of meditation
What to expect at a class
Each class is fairly self contained and all the meditations are guided so you can attend any class - you do not have to start from the beginning of the series. Participants sit on chairs so no special clothing or equipment is required.
Each class begins with a simple guided meditation to help relax and calm the mind. This is followed by a short talk given by a qualified teacher. Each week different advice is given explaining a different aspect of Buddhist thought and how we can use this understanding to improve our daily lives. Examples of the types of topics are - how to reduce stress, how to remain calm when things go wrong, how to improve relationships and increase confidence.
Each class includes an opportunity to discuss and ask questions and concludes with a second guided meditation. At most classes participants are welcome to stay afterwards for refreshments. Everyone can benefit from the classes regardless of experience or religious beliefs.
Click here to see some videos of meditation classes from other centres
Class fees
Each class costs £5 (or £3.50 for people who are unwaged).
Proceeds cover venue hire costs, publicity and administrative costs. The teacher and assistant do not receive payment for running the class.