Vipassana Meditation Group

This group no longer meets.

WHAT is Vipassana?: Also known as Insight Meditation, Vipassana is a practice that trains us to live mindfully in the present moment. Literally meaning "to see clearly," Vipassana enables individuals to experience all aspects of life from a place of greater stillness. Using meditation, one learns to relate to life with greater clarity and loving kindness and with less fear, anxiety and stress.
What happens in the meditation group?: Our meetings usually begin with instructions and a 20 minute meditation, or "sitting." This is followed by a "dharma" talk (dharma means "teaching") that addresses different facets of a meditation practice, including how to bring the heart of meditation into our daily life. After the talk, we have an informal discussion, individual sharing, questions, and general announcements. We will close with a 10 minute sitting.
What if I am new to meditation?: You are welcome to join us! There is no reason to delay starting because instructions are given at almost every class. Try practicing each day, even if only for a very short time. Feel free to ask any questions that arise during the informal discussion time.
Do I need to sign up or register?: This is an open gathering and you are welcome to participate whenever you like.
What is the cost?: There is no required fee. Rather, gratitude is expressed for the teachings by offering donations. This is called "dana" (dana means generosity), and allows for an open-hearted exchange. Any money received will be given to the church to offset the utilities’ cost.

Feel free to ask any questions you may have about Meditation practice. For example:

Q: “May I sit in a chair ...?”: A: Yes, you can sit any way that is comfortable. You should feel grounded and erect. In a chair it is best to sit up straight with the feet flat on the floor, on a cushion or stool if necessary, preferably with the back self supported, not slumped against the back of the chair. It is important to sit in a way that allows you to remain alert as the mind begins to quiet in mediation, otherwise the body may mistakenly think that it is time to go to sleep or otherwise become dull, and our whole goal is clarity and sharpness. If at first you need to rest your back occasionally for relief, please do so. You will find an upright posture easier to maintain over time.