On entering, please leave shoes outside meditation room or just inside the door. Enter silently and take a seat until the session begins. Begin to calm your mind by observing your breath.

The format of the meditation sessions vary with each Sangha. You can find details on the Sitting Schedule pages for the individual Sanghas.

Sitting Meditation

The bell will sound three times to begin the meditation session. You can hear a sample here.

Practitioners sit in a posture they can hold for the duration of the sitting period. If you need to change position, please do so quietly and as unobtrusively as possible.

Cushions, benches, chairs and backjacks are available for use during the sessions. While the use of traditional cushions is encouraged, it is most important to achieve a stable posture. Help is available if needed on posture-related questions. Please feel free to ask for assistance before or after the session.

To signal the end of the session, the bell will sound once.

Walking Meditation

A small bell will sound once to signal the start of walking meditation.

Practitioners rise and follow the direction of the walking meditation line.

Proceed mindfully in the line until the small bell is sounded again. Return and stand in front of your cushion, bench or chair.

Wait for the bell to sound before resuming sitting postures.

Arrival and Departure

Please arrive five to ten minutes before the session begins. If you arrive late, wait until walking or a new session of sitting meditation begins before entering quietly. If you need to leave early, exit between sessions. If you need to use the bathroom, please do so before sessions begin or during walking meditation.

Our Altar

The image of the Buddha represents an unbroken, 2,500 year-old lineage of teacher/student transmission of awakening to fundamental Truth. It is a reminder of our own link with the Buddha, sharing his humanity and above all Buddha Nature, present in each of us, awaiting re-discovery. It is this we honor on the altar.

Dana (Generosity)

Dharma teachings and meditation guidance are given freely to all. A basket for donations is located near the front door. Contributions are gratefully accepted.