How do I learn to meditate? How do I learn more about meditation? An overview of our introductory programs

Are you curious about meditation? Have you tried meditation but you have questions about how to keep it going and establish a regular practice? The Phoenix Shambhala Meditation Center has many different ways to learn to meditate or learn more about meditation. Read more to see which one might be right for you.

What is the Open House?

Our Open House is a free evening session that offers meditation instruction and practice, Q&A, an introduction to Shambhala, and refreshments. Open House is normally held on the first Wednesday of every other month, starting at 6:30 pm. (Check our calendar for exact dates.) No registration required. Donations are gratefully accepted.

The next Open House is Wednesday, November 6 at 6:30 pm.

What is Level 1 (The Art of Being Human)?

Level 1, or “The Art of Being Human,” is a New Meditators’ Weekend class that provides a deeper introduction to meditation. It is also the first part of the Shambhala Training curriculum, and is suitable for beginners as well as those already familiar with meditation who wish to deepen their practice. In Level 1 we glimpse unconditional goodness as the ground of our existence through the practice of meditation. As we open to ourselves with gentleness and appreciation, we begin to see our potential as genuine and compassionate human beings.

Please check our calendar for the next Level 1 as it is scheduled.

What is Meditation in Everyday Life?

Are you looking for a class that addresses how to incorporate your meditation practice into your daily life? Meditation in Everyday Life (MIEL) is a 5-week course that will provide further tools and teachings to help make mindfulness meditation practice part of one’s life, revealing our innate stability, strength, and clarity. The ways that meditation practice can improve the quality of daily life are discussed, along with the obstacles. By deepening our experience and understanding of ourselves through the practice of meditation, we more fully become who we already are.

Our next Meditation in Everyday Life class starts October 2.

What if I can’t make a class? Are there other options for learning to meditate?

Free meditation instruction is available at all of our Public Sittings: Sunday mornings at 9:30 am and Wednesday evenings at 7 pm. (No Public Sitting on Open House Wednesdays.) This brief one-on-one instruction will give you an overview of the meditation technique and an opportunity to ask questions.

Do you have additional questions about visiting the Shambhala Center? Please see our FAQ post for answers to some common questions.