If you’re new here, welcome. Any of these events will be suitable for newcomers. There are so many different ways to meditate and many different traditions of Buddhism, so regardless of experience, it’s still useful to start with an introductory class and go from there. The best place to begin is our popular six week course, but you might like to try one of the drop in options instead.
UPCOMING CLASSES:
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 classes are a great place to start.
These sessions will introduce you to three meditations and link these into some core Buddhist principles, re-imagined for the realities of modern life. Rather than offering quick fixes or abstract philosophy, the courses invite you to explore a different way of relating to your thoughts, emotions, and the world around you.
Through guided meditation, discussion, and simple teachings from the Buddhist tradition, we’ll explore how awareness, kindness, and insight can change how we live, moment by moment. The emphasis is practical, experiential, and open-minded, making the course suitable whether you’re completely new to meditation or looking to deepen your understanding.
There is no set charge for our classes and events – they are offered 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.
“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 or class?
We would strongly recommend doing an introductory course or class 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. Though we do emphasise being with direct experience. Sometimes this is unpleasant. We will not and can not promise happiness, or peace, or calm on our courses but do hope you move somewhere in that direction.
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 classes 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 of the course? 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