Kalyana Mitta

"Kalyana Mitta" is the Pali term for spiritual friends. Kalyana Mitta groups are small groups of sangha members who commit to meeting together on a regular basis to discuss and share their experiences in the practice. These groups are in addition to weekly sangha gatherings and less structured.

This setting provides an opportunity for members to practice deep listening and to support and nurture each other in efforts to bring the practice into daily life. They are an enjoyable way to deepen practice and form connections and friendships with others who are on this same Dharma path.

Groups typically meet biweekly in members’ homes and are facilitated by pairs of experienced practitioners who provide guidance and help create a safe and supportive environment. Groups begin with sitting meditation followed by mindful sharing and discussion. In Dharma discussion members are able to benefit from each other’s experiences by sharing the joys, difficulties, insights, and aspirations of their practice. The groups end with a brief time for each member to reflect and share his or her thoughts on the session.

In Kalyana Mitta groups members develop a deep sense of trust and acceptance that allows for true exploration of our Dharma journeys of personal transformation. They are a powerful means of strengthening and broadening our practice.