Our courses are a great place to start. We will introduce you to meditation in the context of the Buddhist ideas those meditations are rooted in.
We offer two distinct six week courses: “Towards Peace of Mind” and “Positive Ways of Living” and we recommend you do both. You can do the courses in any order – both are suitable for newcomers and for people who want a refresh. These interactive and friendly sessions give you an opportunity to ask questions and discuss your experiences and thoughts with others.
It also gives you the chance to get a flavour of the Buddhist Centre’s atmosphere and learn alongside other like-minded people. To help you get the most out of the course we ask you to commit, as best you can, to attending all six sessions. Our courses are all in person at the Buddhist Centre unless stated otherwise. Booking is essential as places are limited. No charge – the courses are by donation.
Got more specific questions? Find some FAQ’s here. Have any accessibility queries? Read about the building here.
UPCOMING COURSES:
Learn to Meditate in a Day
This day workshop is similar to our popular 6 week courses, but condensed into one day. This can be perfect for people who can’t commit to 6 evenings for whatever reason.
Sunday 3 December, from 10:30am – 4pm
Tuesday evening course
The next course will start on Tuesday 9 January. Sessions run from 7:15-9:15pm, with a tea break. Arrive from 7pm.
Thursday evening course
The next course will start on Thursday 11 January. Sessions run from 7:15-9:15pm, with a tea break. Arrive from 7pm.
“Experiences are preceded by mind, led by mind and produced by mind.”
– THE DHAMMAPADA
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be a Buddhist, or interested in becoming a Buddhist, to join a course? Am I welcome to come if I follow another religion or am not religious?
While we introduce Buddhist ideas on these courses there is no expectation that people attending will be or will become Buddhist. All are welcome.
What benefit will I get from joining the course?
The meditations and Buddhist ideas introduced on our courses aim to give people tools to respond creatively, rather than reactively, to the struggles and stresses of everyday life. Our approach is very down-to-earth, we want to help people live well and be a positive presence in the world.
Will meditation help me to relax?
Meditation is a means of understanding our minds – the joys and sorrows of life all come through the mind. Meditation helps us relate to this differently, which can help us to relax, and ultimately lead us to freedom.
Who will be leading the course and what experience do they have?
The courses are led by members of the Triratna Buddhist Order, or those training to join the Order, all of whom have many years of experience in meditation and Buddhism.
What do I need to bring to the meditation class?
We provide all the equipment you will need. There will be the option of chairs, or mats/cushions. If you have any accessibility questions, do call or email before the session. Just wear reasonably comfortable clothes and turn your phone off for the evening.
Can I join if I miss the first two weeks? Or can a friend join halfway through?
We find that people get the most out of the course when there is continuity in the group and the first 2 weeks of the course cover some fundamental basics, which you’ll need to know going forwards. We ask anyone who misses the first two weeks to just book for the next course.
For any questions you might have that aren’t answered above, please email us: info@birminghambuddhistcentre.org.uk