Getting Started with Meditation
Mindfulness Meditation is a practice that anyone can do.
It is based on the radical idea that the natural state of the mind is not scattered, nervous, and confused, but rather calm, creative, and clear.
Practicing regularly provides a way to settle into this natural state more often. At the Shambhala Center, we begin by training in shamatha or mindfulness meditation. This foundational technique allows you to tune into the present moment, at home, at work, or wherever you go in your day to day life.
Where to Start?
We offer a path of meditation practice, contemplative arts and social engagement oriented towards modern life.
The Open House Initial Instruction and Public Meditation Sitting provide free meditation instruction and an ongoing support for a regular sitting practice.
We welcome anyone new to meditation to check out these ongoing introductory classes & programs.
Open House with Initial Meditation Instruction
Guided meditation instruction, talk and discussion
This free introduction to meditation is an opportunity to meditate in a supportive group setting, to learn how to apply the principles of meditation to everyday life, and to meet and mingle with those interested in mindfulness. After instruction, you will be invited to join the public sitting and stay for a talk and discussion on Shambhala Buddhism led by a meditation instructor followed by a time for conversation and cookies.
Decatur – 1447 Church St, Decatur 30030
Sunday Morning 10:00am
Public Meditation Sitting
A good place for everyone to start is at one of our ongoing, weekly public sitting times. Everyone is welcome to these free sessions.
Decatur – 1447 Church St, Decatur 30030
Tuesday Evening 7- 7:30pm followed by Discussion
Sunday Morning 10- 11 am followed by Discussion
Contemplative Arts
As a community, Shambhala embraces a variety of contemplative arts and practices. These disciplines are inspired by Nalanda, an eleventh-century Indian university that welcomed teachings from many different traditions. Contemplative arts and practices bring beauty, vividness and wisdom to our lives and environment. A contemplative approach can be brought into any of the arts, including design, music, dance, and poetry.
Social Engagement
Shambhala Social Engagement (SSE) is a vehicle for Shambhala to foster creative responses to the challenges that our society faces. SSE will provide a container and a support structure to individuals or groups who are inspired by the vision of Shambhala and wish to further the mission of Shambhala in the larger society. SSE will support methods in which people can begin to explore systemic issues within Shambhala and in wider society, and what it means to create sane systems that are based on inherent wisdom. It is therefore a way to train and build capacity for skillful action and leadership in our world.
Recommended Readings:
Shambhala: The Sacred Path of the Warrior by Chögyam Trungpa
Cutting Through Spiritual Materialism by Chögyam Trungpa
Books also available for purchase at our Centers
