Basic Meditation Instruction

Basic meditation instruction is often presented at the beginning of the meditation hour, especially when there are new people present. The first meditation technique we teach is shamatha mindfulness meditation using the breath as the object of meditation.   We also teach vipashyana meditation which is an awareness technique of opening to the present moment. A mahayana practice called tonglen is a technique for opening the heart of compassion. There are instructions for these practices below, but students are encouraged to meet individually with a meditation instructor to receive more direct personal instruction.

Working with a meditation instructor

We encourage all students to have a daily meditation practice. Making a commitment to practice regularly, even for 15 minutes a day, provides a foundation for going deeper into meditation and for understanding the buddhist teachings. Since the teachings go beyond concept, without meditation, study will simply be an intellectual accumulation of knowledge rather than a path to awakening.

As students progress along the path and their meditation practice evolves, they may encounter obstacles and blocks to practice. The meditation instructor can make specific suggestions to guide students along the way. We encourage all students to develop a relationship with a meditation instructor to provide an ongoing support for practice. There is no charge for meditation instruction. You may approach any of our teachers or coordinators  to help you find someone to meet with.

Guided meditation instruction

There are several recordings of meditation instruction available below. Please seek further help from a meditation instructor if you have any questions.