WEDNESDAY DROP-IN MEDITATION CLASS

This is an open, ongoing mindfulness meditation group for both beginners and experienced practitioners. While the forms of meditation we practice are rooted in Buddhist teachings, the study and practice of mindfulness and insight meditation is applicable to anyone from any background or religion, and all are welcome. Each class includes guided meditation, instruction, opportunities to practice, and time for discussion, questions and answers.
 

We practice Insight Meditation, a style of meditation that helps the mind attain deeper levels of calm concentration through sustained attention on the breath, then combines this with the crucial aspect of insight through contemplation of the mind and body and all of their changing and impermanent senses, emotions and thoughts. Insight Meditation trains us to live more fully in the present moment, enables us to experience life from a greater stillness, and aids us in relating to both ourselves and others with increased clarity, compassion, calmness and creativity, and less fear, anxiety and stress. Along with these and a long list of other psychological benefits, meditation has also been shown to reduce stress hormones in the body, lower blood pressure, reduce anxiety, alleviate depression and boost the immune system.

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Cost: These teachings are available to all. Although a $10 donation is suggested, donations are not required for attendance.

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Directions and Parking: Centennial High School Parking - September through June: Park in the Bus loop or in the main parking area of the school. Enter any main door and follow the Columbia Insight Meditation signs to classroom 406.

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Suggestions:

• Please arrive early to settle into your seats--we start right at 7:00 p.m.

• There are plenty of chairs, but if you prefer to sit on the floor, which is carpeted, please bring a hard pillow or zafu, since, when meditating, it is recommended that your hips be higher than your knees. If you have never tried sitting on the floor during meditation, it is highly recommended that you try the chair first, then practice sitting on the floor at home until you are comfortable.

• If you have any back issues, please bring a pillow or cushion to place behind you.

• The chairs are hard, so you may wish to bring a cushion with you to sit on. Some cushions are available.

• Please remember to turn off your cell phones before entering the room.

• Please try not to wear any perfume to the sit, as it can be quite distracting to others. Also, with respect to those who may be allergic, we do not use incense.

• The group is not recommended for those under age 13.

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Online: For those interested in attending online, Stan provides the Zoom link via email--sign up for the class at Meetup.com to receive the link.