What to Expect at a Meditation Class or Special Event

The evening classes begin promptly at the advertised time. Students often arrive early to socialize and help prepare the Meditation Room, so feel free to join us then if you wish. All classes begin with a guided relaxation meditation, and some include brief, preparatory chanted prayers. Then there will be the featured talk for the evening. There will be an opportunity to ask questions and discuss after the talk. Questions are welcome and warmly encouraged - often, many have the same question, so by asking we may help others in the class.

If you have time, please stay for light refreshments (snacks and tea) and socializing after the class. The room is set up with space for cushions in front (for those who prefer to sit on the floor), and chairs arranged in a typical lecture style. We have a shrine in the front of the room with representations of Buddha's body, speech, and mind, and offerings such as fresh flowers are frequently set out on the shrine.

Please select class titles from the menu above to learn more about current classes.

Here are a few guidelines to help make your visit comfortable and relaxing, in case you are not familiar with some of our customs. It's so important that we enjoy ourselves in our spiritual practice, and we are often happiest when we know a few of the customs and traditions in advance. The main intention is to develop a respectful attitude in our heart, so please do this in whichever manner makes you most comfortable:

• First, we ask that you remove your shoes and leave them in the foyer when you arrive.
• Please remember to turn off your cell phone.
• It is customary and respectful to stand when the Teacher enters and leaves the Meditation Room.
• It is most respectful that Dharma books and sadhanas (prayer books) not be placed on the floor.

"Puja" means chanted prayer or meditation. We do several different kinds of chanted meditations at our Center - please visit our pujas page for more information on times for particular practices. All pujas are chanted in English to a beautiful melody and everyone is welcome.