Newcomers Night
The evening takes place in two halves. Usually in the first, 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 for 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 attending at any point in the cycle.
Programme
| Date | Meditation | Talk Subject |
|---|---|---|
| 14 July | Mettā Bhāvanā | The Life of the Buddha - Part 1 (Introduction) |
| 21 July | Mindfulness of Breathing | The Life of the Buddha - Part 2 (Compassion) |
| 28 July | Mettā Bhāvanā | The Three Jewels and the Triratna Buddhist Community |
| 4 August | Mindfulness of Breathing | Karma & Rebirth |
| 11 August | Mettā Bhāvanā | The Five Precepts: The Preciousness of Life |
| 18 August | Mindfulness of Breathing | The Five Precepts: Generosity |
| 25 August | Mettā Bhāvanā | The Five Precepts: Stillness, Simplicity and Contentment |
| 1 September | Mindfulness of Breathing | The Five Precepts: Wholesome Speech |
| 8 September | Mettā Bhāvanā | The Five Precepts: Mindfulness and Life Without Intoxication |
| 15 September | Mindfulness of Breathing | More on Meditation - Part 1 (What Is Meditation) |
| 22 September | Mettā Bhāvanā | More on Meditation - Part 2 (Setting up a Practice) |
| 29 September | Mindfulness of Breathing | Meditation Workshop |
| 6 October | Mettā Bhāvanā | Hindrances and Antidotes |
| 13 October | Mindfulness of Breathing | Meditation Experiences (Access Concentration and Dhyāna) |
| 20 October | Mettā Bhāvanā | The Four Noble Truths |
| 27 October | Mindfulness of Breathing | The Noble Eightfold Path |
| 3 November | Mettā Bhāvanā | The Three Lakṣaṇas |
| 10 November | Mindfulness of Breathing | Faith and Confidence |
| 17 November | Mettā Bhāvanā | Symbolism |
| 24 November | Mindfulness of Breathing | Personal Talks |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to book?
No, just turn up!
What time do I need to arrive?
Plan to arrive before 7pm! Although a few minutes late is usually okay, it is not possible to join once the meditation begins.
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.
Do I need to be a Buddhist?
No - the class is suitable for everyone, especially those who are completely new to meditation and Buddhism.
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.
Can I come just for the meditation?
Of course!
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
Where to Find Us
We're in Newtown, a few minutes walk away from the station.