Beginners' courses are put on from time to time, usually monthly, at the Quiet Centre, University of Surrey. There is no fee, but you need to get an email invitation. Designed for those who are new to meditation, and those who have meditated before but would benefit from orientation in the distinctive MBW approach. It is helpful to the whole MBW community if everyone who intends to attend regularly would attend this course at some point.

If you are interested in a Beginners' Course then please send your name to inquiries@modernbuddhaway.org and you will receive an invitation. It is likely to be on a Sunday afternoon in Guildford.

The next Beginners' Courses will take place on:

1) Sunday afternoon 30th March 2008, 1-4pm, at the Quiet Centre, University of Surrey, Guildford. Free.

2) Tuesday evening, 15th April 2008, 7pm to 9 pm at Vine Hall, Vine Road, East Molesey, Surrey. Free. For this event at E. Molesey please let us know you are intending to attend by emailing us at: inquiries@modernbuddhaway.org

What is involved in this meditation course?

In the course there are introductory talks and practical exercises on the main aspects of MBW's practice: mindfulness of body, concentration meditation, ethical living, wise understanding, and a brief explanation of insight meditation (which is covered later in a special class):

Introduction
- participatory exploration of cause of stress, anxiety, harm and conflict
General Mindfulness:
- mindfulness of body: posture
- mindfulness of body: scanning the body for tension
- mindfulness of body: 'aware listening' exercise
Concentration:
- concentration on candle exercise
- concentration on breath-sensation exercise
- concentration on belly-breathing
Insight Meditation:
- walking meditation (concentration on footstep exercise)
Right living
- introduction to right eating, speaking and listening, non-harmful action, right livelihood

NOTES
On the day, you will be given a free booklet 'The Modern Buddha Way: Practice', that explains a great deal.
Once you have taken the Beginners' Course you may attend the 'Guided Session' any/every Sunday 10am -12.00 noon at University of Surrey, Guildford (already running) or at Vine Hall, East Molesey, any/every Tuesday 7-9pm (Starting 4 March 2008). Both free.
There is no membership, and no fees. Donations for candles, incense, cushions, subsidising retreats, etc. are accepted.
A combination of regular practice at home and continuing orientation and support from the weekly sessions works best. In most cases meditating within a helpful community is more likely to bring lasting benefits than meditating alone.
For information on location, transport, etc. click on 'Get There' Link above.