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
29 January 2025 Mindfulness of Breathing Introduction: Buddhism, the Three Jewels and the Triratna Buddhist Community
5 February 2025 Mettā Bhāvanā Introduction: The Life of the Buddha
12 February Mindfulness of Breathing Ethics: The Preciousness of Life
19 February Mettā Bhāvanā Ethics: Generosity
26 February Mindfulness of Breathing Ethics: Stillness, Simplicity and Contentment
5 March Mettā Bhāvanā Ethics: Wholesome Speech
12 March Mindfulness of Breathing Ethics: Mindfulness and Life Without Intoxication
19 March Mettā Bhāvanā Meditation: Introduction
26 March Mindfulness of Breathing Meditation: Setting up a Practice
2 April Mettā Bhāvanā Meditation: Workshop
9 April Mindfulness of Breathing Meditation: Hindrances and Antidotes
16 April Mettā Bhāvanā Meditation: Access Concentration and Dhyāna
23 April Mindfulness of Breathing Wisdom: The Four Noble Truths
30 April Mettā Bhāvanā Wisdom: The Noble Eightfold Path
7 May Mindfulness of Breathing Wisdom: The Three Lakṣaṇas
14 May Mettā Bhāvanā Wisdom: Faith and Confidence
21 May Mindfulness of Breathing Wisdom: Symbolism
28 May 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.

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.