Meditation for beginners

Meditation for Absolute Beginners

Everyone is welcome to enjoy this four part series on learning how to meditate. We will look at the benefits of meditation, why we meditate, how to meditate and how to improve our mindfulness and concentration. This on-demand series allows us to enjoy the necessary guidance we need to begin and sustain our meditation practice.

This series is taught by Gen Kelsang Rinzin, an American Buddhist monk and the Resident Teacher at Kadampa Meditation Center Washington in Seattle. He is known for his joyful presentations on meditation and his understanding of Buddhist philosophy and psychology.

KMC Washington offers classes throughout Washington state as branches are often requested by local residents. In the event you are interested in an in-person branch class with Gen Rinzin, please let us know.

Purchase the series

MEDITATION RESOURCES

Get meditation books and mp3/CDs from Tharpa Publications or locally via curbside pickup 

Purchase paper books via curbside pickup from the Kadampa Meditation Center Washington bookshop or browse Tharpa Publications online.

Meditations for Relaxation – get the mp3 instantly, or order a CD on sale!

Start a regular meditation practiceThe New Meditation Handbook by Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche. Order online here or pick up a copy locally.

CLASS FORMAT

What to expect at a class

  • Guided Meditation

    Each class begins with a guided breathing meditation to help settle the mind, let go of distractions and cultivate inner peace.

  • Teaching

    The teacher will then give a practical teaching based on a Buddhist topic, and will explain how we can integrate Buddha’s timeless wisdom into our busy daily lives.

  • Concluding Meditation

    The class concludes with a guided meditation to help us become deeply familiar with the teaching. Dedication prayers are chanted at the end of some classes.

FAQ

Click below to find out more

Q: Do I have to be a Buddhist to attend?

A: No. Buddha’s teachings are presented in a way that is accessible to everyone, and no religious obligation is required.

Q: Do I need to have any experience?

A: No. Everyone is welcome, including beginners. The classes are fully guided so all you need to do is show up.

Q: How should I dress?

A: No special clothing is required, come as you are.

Q: Is there any physical exercise involved?

A: No. The classes focus on meditation and teachings alone. You can choose to sit on a chair or meditation cushion.

Q: Will I be asked to speak in front of a group?

A: No, but you can ask questions after class if you would like.

Q: Do I need to book in advance?

A: No, it is not necessary to book in advance. Each class is self-contained so you can come to whichever class suits your schedule and start whenever you like.

Q: Why do you charge for classes?

A: Kadampa Meditation Center Washington is a registered 501(c)3 non-profit organization run entirely by volunteers. Supporter donations and fees are used to rent or maintain facilities for these classes, and any surplus is donated to the International Temples Project. We make every effort to keep fees low and, for most classes and events, reduced rates are available to senior citizens and full-time students. If you would like to attend an event but are unable to afford the fee, please contact the Administrative Director at least one week in advance.

Q: Do I need to wait for the next series of classes to begin?

A: No, please feel free to drop in whenever you like. Attending the entire series of classes is highly beneficial, as each class builds on the next. However, each class is taught in such a way that you can derive value from attending even just once.