Men’s Study

The evening takes place in several parts. We begin by reporting in with each other, followed by exploring one of two Buddhist meditations. Then after a short break, we will introduce another aspect of Buddhism with an opportunity for discussion. You are welcome to turn up for whichever parts you want to join for.

Reporting In

Starting at 5:30pm we meet together over food to talk about life and practice. This is usually in the format of each person having a few minutes to report on whatever is most relevant for them.

Meditation

Starting at 6:30pm we practice 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.

For those who are new, we will help you to set up in good posture and give a fully led practice, so there is no need for any previous experience. For those who are already familiar with the practices, we will have a separate unguided session.

Dharma

Starting around 7:30pm we explore an aspect of the Dharma (the name for the teachings of the Buddha).

For those who are new, the format is usually a short presentation, followed by discussion. We typically cover topics in a series along a particular theme, but every night will stand alone so there is no need for any previous knowledge for any evening and you can start coming at any point in the series. For those who have been attending for a while, we have study groups that go more into detail along a particular theme.