Newcomers Night

Newcomers Night

The evening takes place in two halves. Usually in the first half, we explore one of two Buddhist meditations. After a short break, we will introduce another aspect of Buddhism with an opportunity for discussion.

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.

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.

Dharma

Dharma is the name for the teachings of the Buddha. We introduce Dharma in a way that is accessible and practical to everyday life in the modern world. Usually the format is a short presentation, followed by breaking into smaller groups for discussion.

We have a set series of 18 topics that we cycle through, covering Buddhist ethics, meditation theory and Buddhist wisdom. 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 cycle.

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Programme

Date Meditation Talk Subject
3 June Mindfulness of Breathing Introduction: Buddhism, the Three Jewels and the Triratna Buddhist Community
10 June Mettā Bhāvanā Introduction: The Life of the Buddha
17 June Mindfulness of Breathing Ethics: The Preciousness of Life
24 June Mettā Bhāvanā Ethics: Generosity
1 July Mindfulness of Breathing Ethics: Stillness, Simplicity and Contentment
8 July Mettā Bhāvanā Ethics: Wholesome Speech
15 July Mindfulness of Breathing Ethics: Mindfulness and Life Without Intoxication
22 July Mettā Bhāvanā Meditation: Introduction
29 July Mindfulness of Breathing Meditation: Setting up a Practice
5 August Mettā Bhāvanā Meditation: Workshop
12 August Mindfulness of Breathing Meditation: Hindrances and Antidotes
19 August Mettā Bhāvanā Meditation: Access Concentration and Dhyāna
26 August Mindfulness of Breathing Wisdom: The Four Noble Truths
2 September Mettā Bhāvanā Wisdom: The Noble Eightfold Path
9 September Mindfulness of Breathing Wisdom: The Three Lakṣaṇas
16 September Mettā Bhāvanā Wisdom: Faith and Confidence
23 September Mindfulness of Breathing Wisdom: Symbolism
30 September Mettā Bhāvanā Personal Talks
More questions? Get in touch

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to book?

No, just turn up!

Is it okay to join the middle of a series?

Absolutely. Although the second half of the class usually follows a particular theme for a few weeks, each night stands alone and there's no need to wait until the start of the next series if you want to start coming.

Do I need to be a Buddhist?

No - the class is suitable for everyone, especially those who are completely new to meditation and Buddhism.

What should I wear?

There are no special requirements, just make sure you'll be comfortable to sit for the length of the meditation. Because we will be meditating in an enclosed space together please do not wear perfume or anything that has a strong smell which some people may be sensitive to.

How much does the class cost?

We don't charge a fixed price for our classes but instead invite you to make a donation to the centre to help us cover our running costs.

A donation of $10-20 would help us to cover our costs, but everyone is equally welcome, even if you cannot give anything at all.

The Team

Bodhidasa
Bodhidasa
Dhammakumāra
Dhammakumāra

Where to Find Us

We're in Newtown, a few minutes walk away from the station.