Buddhist Meditation Introductory Course
Six Week Course on Tuesdays, Sep 1 to Oct 6, 2026, 7pm to 9pm
Would you like to live more creatively, with more freedom, kindness, and wisdom—and with less fear, irritation, and confusion? The Buddha practiced and then taught meditation for this very purpose, and these practices are readily available to everyone.
Mindfulness of Breathing, or Anapanasati, is a beautifully simple and deeply transformative practice. By using the sensations of breathing to ground our awareness in the body, we learn to meet the inner and outer events of everyday life with greater spaciousness, clarity, and compassion.
The Metta Bhavana, or cultivation of loving-kindness, is a powerful meditation practice that teaches us how to bring a friendly, kind, and curious attention to ourselves, to others, and to whatever arises in our experience. This softens harsh self-criticism and judgment, and supports a sense of ease and openness in our participation in the world.
In this friendly, practical, and easy-to-follow course, we will explore both of these practices, along with embodied awareness. Each evening will include guided meditations, as well as time for questions and for sharing our discoveries in a safe and welcoming space.
Through practicing both in class and at home, we begin to recognize our less helpful habits without always following them, allowing space for new possibilities to emerge. Gradually, our relationship with ourselves, with others, and with the world around us becomes easier, more appreciative, and more attentive.
Suitable for:
Complete beginners to meditation, as well as for those wishing to refresh or deepen their practice. Ideally, participants will be able to attend at least five of the six classes.
Practice environment:
Cushions, benches, chairs, blankets, and mats are available. Please wear comfortable clothing for sitting and gentle movement, and bring layers, as temperatures can vary.
Registration:
Please register in advance – see below. The suggested donation is $150 – $110. No-one is turned away for lack of funds so please let us know if you need a lower rate.
All donations support the running of the SFBC and help maintain a space for shared practice. Our teachers volunteer their time.
Care:
Please take care of yourself and others. If you are feeling unwell or have symptoms of a contagious illness, we ask that you do not attend.