The gift of learning to meditate is the greatest gift you can give yourself in this life. For it is only through meditation that you can undertake the journey to discover your true nature, and so find the stability and confidence you will need to live, and die, well. Meditation is the road to enlightenment.Sogyal Rinpoche
The purpose of meditation is to awaken in us the sky-like nature of mind, and to introduce us to that which we really are, our unchanging pure awareness, which underlies the whole of life and death. Meditation is the way to bring us back to ourselves, where we can really experience and taste our full being, beyond all habitual patterns. In the stillness and silence of meditation, we glimpse and return to that deep inner nature that we have so long ago lost sight of amid the business and distraction of our minds.
By practicing mindfulness, awareness and lingering in open space (Shamatha meditation), we calm our distracted mind, overcome distraction and defuse our powerful emotions.
In the first and most basic form of meditation, we allow our mind to naturally rest in a state of relaxed mindfulness in which it gradually finds peace and stability.
The method of meditation, which has been handed down since ancient times, is today regarded as a powerful support for us modern people – as something that can be used by everyone, regardless of age and origin, at any time.
There is growing scientific evidence that meditation has positive effects on our health and wellbeing.
10 Reasons to Meditate
Drop-in Meditation Sessions
A wonderful chance to experience meditation in your own space guided by experienced practitioners and instructors. Sometimes also watching wise, instructional and evocative video teachings by some of the great Buddhist masters of this era.
Drop in when you can make it.
These sessions are a great introduction for someone who has never meditated before and for people wanting to meditate regularly.
Meditation Classes
Whether you are looking for instruction and support with your meditation practice, or a complete path to Enlightenment, Rigpa courses have something to offer you.
Learn what meditation is and how to meditate. Explore compassion and how and why it is worth cultivating in our lives. For those new to Buddhism, there are introductory courses that provide a general introduction to Tibetan Buddhism.
