Introduction to Meditation Series - The Art & Science of Meditation

River Road Unitarian Universalist Congregation | Oct 2010

This 4-week series was taught by Tara in a specially videotaped session during the fall of 2010. It's purpose is to offer our newcomers and also more experienced meditators who want a "refresher" a context for the path of Buddhist practice, as well as practical advice on creating a skillful meditation practice.

Talks in this series

Intro to Meditation, Part 1 - Mindfulness of Breath and Sensations

by Tara Brach | Oct 13, 2010

The first session defines meditation and describes the Buddhist teachings that give a context to the path of practice. We explore the two basic types of meditation--concentration and mindfulness--and then focus on the ground of mindfulness training: bringing mindful attention to the breath and bodily sensations. Guided meditations include setting intention and the sacred pause; learning to "come back" using an anchor of the breath; and "being here" with an embodied presence.

Intro to Meditation, Part 2 - Mindfulness of Emotions

by Tara Brach | Oct 20, 2010

Our conditioning is to live in a reactive trance of either resisting or become possessed by strong emotions. This reactivity fuels a trance of being separate from others, and feeling defective and insecure. In this class we explore how to free ourselves from this suffering by bringing a mindful and kind awareness to the stories and feelings that make up our emotional life.

Intro to Meditation, Part 3 - Mindfulness of Thoughts

by Tara Brach | Oct 27, 2010

The primary element in meditation is training to awaken from the trance of thoughts. This class explores two key ways that mindfulness supports this awakening. The first is using wise reflection to discern if thoughts are imprisoning us in fear or serving healing and freedom. The second is recognizing when we are in the virtual reality of thinking, and learning to "come back" to living presence. It is by inhabiting this non-conceptual presence that we have access to the love, wisdom and freedom that we cherish.

Intro to Meditation, Part 4 - Living from Presence

by Tara Brach | Nov 3, 2010

Our human potential is to express the wings of presence--mindfulness and lovingkindness--through all facets of daiy living. This talk explores the practices that enable us to both serve and savor this precious life.