Wednesday Dharma Night in person only
The evening takes place in two halves. In the first half, we explore one of two Buddhist meditations. After a short tea break, we will introduce another aspect of Buddhism with an opportunity for discussion.
Classes are free but your donations are greatly appreciated. Make an online donation here
Meditation
We teach two Buddhist meditation practices: Mindfulness of Breathing, for developing awareness, integration and clarity of mind; and Mettā Bhāvanā (“development of loving kindness”), which brings about a gentle but radical transformation of our emotional world. Each week we alternate between the two practices.
Talks
We introduce traditional teachings of the Buddha in a way that is accessible and practical to everyday life in the modern world. Usually the format is a talk, followed by breaking into smaller groups for discussion.
Programme
2 October 2024 — 29 January 2025: Worldly Winds
| Date | Meditation | Topic | Newcomers |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 October 2024 | Mettā Bhāvanā | Shelter from the Storm, the Inner Work of Meditation - Katrina | Wisdom 4 – Karma and rebirth - Kṣāntivajra |
| 9 October 2024 | Mindfulness of Breathing | Vīryanātha (ex David) Returns from Ordination - Āryasāra | Newcomers and Regulars together |
| 16 October 2024 | Mettā Bhāvanā | Dr Ambedkar Day - Āryasāra | Newcomers and Regulars together |
| 23 October | Mindfulness of Breathing | The Winds of Change, Deepening Our Perspective - Kṣāntivajra | Introduction to Buddhism and Triratna - Vanarājī |
| 30 October | Mettā Bhāvanā | Winds from the West - Saraṇālokā | Going for refuge to the three jewels - Katrina |
| 6 November | Mindfulness of Breathing | If... not just a question of if; it is a matter of practice - Āryasāra | Ethics 1 – Non harm - Abhayavāṇī |
| 13 November | Mettā Bhāvanā | Sangha Day Festival - Āryasāra | Ethics 2 – Generosity - Katrina |
| 20 November | Mindfulness of Breathing | The Lokavipatti Sutta - Pat | Ethics 3 – Contentment - Saraṇālokā |
| 27 November | Mettā Bhāvanā | Review and discussion on Worldly Winds - Āryasāra | Ethics 4 – Wholesome speech - |
| 4 December | Mindfulness of Breathing | Ritual and Devotion - Kṣāntivajra | Ethics 5 – Mindfulness - Abhayavāṇī |
| 11 December | Mettā Bhāvanā | Practice Evening - Saraṇālokā | Meditation 1 – The System of Practice - |
| 18 December | Mindfulness of Breathing | Practice Evening - Abhayavāṇī | Meditation 2 – Balanced effort - Saraṇālokā |
| 25 December | NO CLASS TONIGHT | ||
| 1 January 2025 | Mettā Bhāvanā | Meditation 3 – The Hindrances - | |
| 8 January 2025 | Mindfulness of Breathing | Wisdom 1 – Conditionality - John | |
| 15 January 2025 | Mettā Bhāvanā | Wisdom 2 – The Four Noble Truths - Katrina | |
| 22 January 2025 | Mindfulness of Breathing | Wisdom 3 – The Lakshanas - Saraṇālokā | |
| 29 January 2025 | Mettā Bhāvanā | Wisdom 4 – Karma and rebirth - Saraṇālokā |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be a Buddhist?
No, the class is suitable for everyone who wants to meditate or learn about Buddhism.
What should I wear?
There are no special requirements, just whatever is comfortable to sit in.
Do I need to book?
No - just turn up!
Is it okay to join in the middle of the series?
Absolutely. Though of course you'll get those most out of the class by attending the whole series, there's no need to wait until the start of the next series if you want to start coming.
Can I just come for the meditation?
Of course, though the meditation we teach is itself a Buddhist teaching.
How much does the class cost?
We don't charge for our classes, and the team are not paid for their time. We simply ask that those who are able to do so make a donation to the centre to help us cover our running costs.
The suggested amount, based on how many people come and how much it costs to run the centre, would be what you would pay for say a Yoga class, but this is not a fixed cost and everyone is equally welcome, even if you cannot give anything at all.