Looking to learn to meditate in Birmingham? Curious about Buddhism and how it can help us live more fully in a busy, complex, modern world? Searching for answers to deeper questions or a community to explore them with? Our popular in-person introduction to Meditation and Buddhism courses are a great place to start. These courses will introduce you to three meditations and link these into some core Buddhist principles.
We offer two distinct six week courses: “Towards Peace of Mind” and “Living from inspiration and intention” 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.
To help you get the most out of the course we ask you to commit, as best you can, to attending all six sessions. Booking is essential as places are limited. No charge – the courses are by donation, on a give what you can basis.
Got more specific questions? Find some FAQ’s here. Have any accessibility queries? Read about the building here.
UPCOMING COURSES:
“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.
I already know how to meditate, do i need to do an introductory course?
We would strongly recommend doing an introductory course even if you’ve got prior experience of meditation and/or Buddhism. This is so you can explore the kinds of meditation we do at the Birmingham Buddhist Centre, and how the Buddha’s teachings are presented within this tradition, as there may be new or different emphasises to what you already know. Then you will get a sense if this is the right kind of Buddhist Centre for you.
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