Meditation

There are many things in life that are beyond our control. However, it is possible to take responsibility for and to change one's state of mind and change it. According to Buddhism this is the most important thing we can do, and Buddhism teaches that it is the only real antidote to the anxiety, hatred, discontentedness, sleepiness, and confusion that beset the human condition.

Meditation is a means of transforming the mind. Buddhist meditation practices are techniques that encourage and develop concentration, clarity, and emotional positivity. By engaging with a particular meditation practice one learns the patterns and habits of the mind, and the practice offers a means to cultivate new, more positive ways of being. With discipline and patience these calm and focused states of mind can deepen into profoundly tranquil and energized states of mind. Such experiences can have a transformative effect and can lead to a new understanding of life.

Over the millennia countless meditation practices have been developed in the Buddhist tradition. All of them may be described as 'mind-trainings', but they take many different approaches. The foundation of all of them, however, is the cultivation of a calm and positive state of mind.

Each year thousands of people learn meditation with the FWBO. They learn two basic meditations that develop these qualities: the Mindfulness of Breathing and Loving-Kindness meditation or Mettabhavana.

Learning Meditation

The techniques of meditation are very simple. However, reading about them is no substitute for learning from an experienced and reliable teacher. A teacher will be able to offer you guidance in how to apply the technique and how to deal with difficulties. Perhaps most importantly, a teacher can offer the encouragement and inspiration of their own example.

At FWBO NYC, meditation is taught by members of the Western Buddhist Order, who are experienced meditators. Classes and courses are open to everyone: you need not be interested in Buddhism. Motives for learning meditation vary. Some people want to improve their concentration for work, study, or sports; others are looking for calm and peace of mind. Then there are people trying to answer fundamental questions about life. With regular practice, meditation can help all of us to find what we are looking for.

Meditation Courses are excellent contexts for learning.
Monthly Meditation Days hear in NYC
Retreats offer ideal conditions to go more deeply into meditation.
Meditation CD Guided Meditations: For Calmness, Awareness, and Love
Kamalashila Meditatiom instruction Free Buddhist Audio mp3