|
Mahakankala Buddhist Center offers a variety of introductory meditation classes throughout the Santa Barbara County. Currently, we are offering meditation classes in: Santa Barbara, Montecito, Carpinteria, Goleta, Ventura, Lompoc and San Luis Obispo.
These classes are designed to give a broad introduction to Buddhist meditation, ideas, and practice. Each class combines guided meditation with practical spiritual advice that can be applied immediately as a method for solving the stress and problems in your life.
The classes are open to those who are able to attend only occasionally, as well as to those who want to follow a systematic series of classes. The classes are designed both as a series and as independent classes, so you can attend any one of the classes, even if the series has already started.
What to expect in a class
Classes begin with a simple guided meditation exercise to reduce stress, tension, and distractions.
This short meditation is followed by a teaching on how to apply Buddhist principles in daily life. This may include topics such as overcoming stress and anxiety, improving relationships, gaining peace of mind, learning to love, and dealing with anger. There is a second guided meditation in which we develop some special thoughts, feelings or intentions that will help guide our mind in daily life.
After the class
After the class there is a chance to enjoy snacks and refreshments while relaxing or discussing the ideas presented in the teaching with others.
What do I need to do to attend?
You do not need any previous experience to attend these classes. Also, you do not need to pre-register. Simply find a location and come to the class!
Three Spiritual Programs:
Buddhism teaches that to find lasting happiness and meaning in our lives we need to follow a spiritual path. To follow this path it is important to have a close connection with a qualified Teacher who can give us personal advice and encouragement, to listen to pure Dharma teachings, and to belong to a strong spiritual community. These enable us to penetrate deeply into the meaning of Buddha's teachings, to maintain a daily meditation practice that is both focused and powerful, and to make genuine spiritual progress.
Geshe Kelsang has designed three special spiritual programs for the systematic study and practice of Kadampa Buddhism that are especially suited to the modern world:
-
The General Program (GP)
The General Program (GP) provides a basic introduction to Buddhist teachings and meditation that is suitable for beginners. Through these classes we can learn how to use Buddha's advice in our daily lives to solve our problems and find the peace and happiness we seek. General Program also includes advanced teachings and practices from both Sutra and Tantra.
The Foundation Program (FP)
The Foundation Program is a structured study program designed to enable the student to gain a deeper understanding and experience of Buddha's teachings. With weekly reading assignments from the text, as well as discussions and meditations on the week's readings, the FP creates the conditions for us to develop deep inner experience of the teachings.
The Teacher Training Program (TTP)
The Teacher Training Program (TTP) is designed for people who wish to engage Buddha's teachings in the deepest possible manner in order to benefit others by training as authentic Dharma Teachers. In addition to completing the study of fourteen texts of Sutra and Tantra, the student is required to observe certain commitments with to behavior and way of life, and to complete a number of meditation retreats. Through a deep and continuing commitment to the program of study, meditation, discussion, and retreat, we can gain deep experience of Buddha's teachings, establish a strong meditation practice and become a qualified teacher in our own right.
|
