Introductory Programs: The Path of Meditation

Meditation practice and instruction play a central role in Shambhala. In more than 170 centers around the world we welcome anyone interested in learning to meditate. Although one can find the essential techniques written down in many places, meditation remains essentially an oral tradition, and individual personal instruction is important. Meditation instruction is offered free of charge at all Shambhala Meditation Centers.

Shambhala instructors are experienced practitioners, thoroughly trained to provide guidance, support and direction to students. In our introductory programs, everyone receives the basic tools for traveling the path of meditation. Such programs typically include open talks, mediation practice, group discussions and personal interviews.

Learn to Meditate

Open House

Weekly Gathering

Open House is a time to gather for meditation and a public talk by one of the senior teachers of the centre, followed by discussion and a reception.

Turning the Mind into an Ally

Half-Day and Full-Day Workshops

Based on Sakyong Mipham’s best-selling book, Turning the Mind Into an Ally, these workshops offer a systematic introduction to the practice of meditation. The programs are oriented toward beginners, but have proved extremely helpful for anyone who would like to refresh or deepen their understanding.
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Shambhala Training Level I: The Art of Being Human

Weekend Intensive

Drawn from the tradition presented in Chögyam Trungpa’s seminal book Shambhala, the Sacred Path of the Warrior, this intensive is the essential first step for entering the Shambhala Training path of bravery and gentleness. The Art of Being Human introduces mindfulness-awareness meditation in a secular context and vocabulary. Engaging the mind, we glimpse the world's magic without conceptual filters, and begin to discover a basic goodness which is always present.
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Children's Programs

Given the fruition of Shambhala vision as an enlightened society, many of our centers offer special programs for children, as well as for their parents and extended families. These events include art projects, storytelling, theatre and play, and help to impart a sense of mindfulness and gentleness through direct experience. Some centers also offer "Parenting as Path" groups.

Whether or not children's programs are locally available, Shambhala strongly supports parents and care-givers who wish to apply contemplative principles to family life, as well as to pursue their own personal practice. Childcare during talks and specific programs is available at many centers. Please check with a Shambhala Meditation Centre in your area to find out more.

Weekly Meditation Practice

Most centers hold at least one meditation session per week open to anyone, free of charge. A meditation instructor is present to assist beginners. We alternate periods of sitting (usually about 20 - 30 minutes per period) with walking meditation (10 - 12 minutes) for a total of one to three hours, depending on the day and centre. Many Shambhala Meditation Centers build into the schedule a time for refreshments and socializing.

Ongoing Meditation Instruction

Having received a first instruction at a Shambhala program or event, anyone continuing on the path of meditation is invited to form an ongoing working relationship with a meditation instructor. Meditation instructors are senior practitioners who have undergone extensive, careful training; they learn to guide others along the path, drawing not only from the classical sources, but also from their own experience. The result is practical, friendly advice for integrating a spiritual life with the busy—often hectic—everyday world.