Learn to Meditate

The following will guide you through the basic technique of meditation and how to prepare a place to practice at home. You will also find additional resources and a listing of Karmê Chöling programs suited for beginners.

Why Meditate?

Through meditation, you can begin to discover the mind's inherent stability and strength. When you tap into this stability, your experience of the world becomes more vivid and clear, and you become less swept away by the ebb and flow of life. Sitting quietly and working with your mind is one of the most radical and practical activities in which you could engage.

Setting Up a Space

First, find a quiet and comfortable area of your home where you can relax. You may wish to set up a table with objects that are meaningful to you, including pictures of teachers or loved ones, candles, some incense, or whatever touches your heart. Set a cushion or pillow on the floor that is a proper height and density for you to sit on for a period of time without strain. You may also want to set another cushion or blanket underneath you to cushion your knees or ankles as they rest on the floor. It is also appropriate to sit in a chair.

The Technique of Sitting Meditation

Meditation Instruction: Shamatha Meditation
Download mp3 (2.2mb)

About Shamatha Meditation
Ashe Acharya John Rockwell, Nov 2004
Download mp3 (7mb)

Suggested Books

Ruling Your World

Turning the Mind Into an Ally

Shambhala: The Sacred Path of the Warrior

When Things Fall Apart
By Pema Chödrön
Order

Additional Resources

Samadhi Cushions Store offers articles on meditation posture, starting a meditation practice at home, and setting up a shrine, as well as videos on choosing the right meditation cushion.

The website of Sakyong Mipham Rinpoche offers free teachings in video, audio and print, designed to be accessible to all audiences.

Programs for Beginning Meditators

If you are interested in beginning or strengthening your meditation practice, Karmê Chöling offers several programs to get you started. Many of our programs have been designed for new meditators, such as our Simplicity: Meditation for Real Life retreats, dathüns, and classes offered through our Mukpo Institute Heart of Shambhala Buddhism Program.

Through Tail of the Tiger, we also host programs that introduce meditative mind to all aspects of daily life, including physical activities such as hiking and yoga, creative pursuits such as writing and flower arranging, and career and family life.

View a listing of upcoming programs and pick the time that is best for you to join us, or contact us with any questions. We'll be happy to help!