What We Offer
Meditation
Thursday from 19h00 to 20h00
In Tibetan Buddhism, the two primary kinds of meditation are shamatha (calm abiding) and vipashyana (insight). These practices serve distinct but complementary purposes in the path to enlightenment.
Shamatha: This form of meditation focuses on developing concentration and mental stability. Practitioners typically use an object of focus, such as the breath, a mantra, or a visualized deity, to calm the mind and cultivate a deep, unwavering presence. The benefits of shamatha include enhanced mental clarity, reduced distraction, and the ability to maintain a steady, calm state amidst life’s challenges. By training the mind to be more focused and less reactive, practitioners can experience a greater sense of inner peace and balance.
Vipashyana: Also known as insight or analytical meditation, vipashyana aims to develop profound understanding and insight into the nature of reality. This practice involves examining the nature of phenomena, such as impermanence, suffering, and selflessness, often through contemplative inquiry and analysis. Vipashyana helps practitioners to see through the illusions and delusions that obscure true understanding, leading to greater wisdom and the ability to overcome ignorance and attachment. It fosters a deep realization of the interconnectedness and emptiness of all things, contributing to spiritual liberation and compassion.
Together, shamatha and vipashyana complement each other. Shamatha provides the mental stability necessary for effective insight meditation, while vipashyana allows practitioners to deepen their understanding and application of the calm, focused mind developed through shamatha. This balanced approach helps individuals progress on their spiritual journey, cultivating both inner tranquility and profound wisdom.
Puja ( Devotional Practice / Prayer / Invocation )
Sundays from 07h00 to 08h00
Puja in Buddhism is a devotional practice that involves making offerings and performing rituals to honor the Buddha, Bodhisattvas, and other enlightened beings. It often includes reciting prayers, chanting mantras, making offerings of light, incense, flowers, and food, and engaging in acts of reverence. The practice serves as a way for practitioners to express gratitude, cultivate positive qualities, and reinforce their commitment to the Buddhist path.
The benefits of puja are manifold. Spiritually, it helps to strengthen one’s connection to the Three Jewels—the Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha—while fostering a sense of humility and devotion. It can also serve as a form of purification, helping to release negative karma and develop virtuous qualities. Psychologically, puja provides a structured time for reflection and mindfulness, which can lead to greater inner peace and focus. Additionally, by participating in communal pujas, practitioners often experience a sense of belonging and support within the Buddhist community
Teachings in person or online from an ordained Sangha member or in the way of a discussion by one of the Lam Rim members.
Sundays from 08H30 to 10h30
The main purpose of a Buddhist centre is to provide access to Buddhist teachings which are available through in-person teachings when Teachers are visiting or via Zoom on other occasions. These teachings are complimented with informal discussions amongst members to help understand better what has been taught by learning from others experiences and insight.
The excellence of the Lam Rim is that it organised all the Teachings of Lord Buddha into a comprehensive body of work that is systematic in its approach and clear in its step-by-step meditations leading the aspirant towards either a more enjoyable, meaningful life, or liberation from cyclic existence ( Nirvana ) or complete awakening ( Buddhahood ) depending on the capacity and inclination of the individual.
The Lam Rim teachings offer a broad and comprehensive collection of the Mahayana tradition in Buddhism, which is focussed on developing ultimate compassion and wisdom in order to benefit all sentient beings. By devoting oneself altruistically to the benefit of others, not only are they helped, but the practitioner can overcome unhappiness and increase well-being and satisfaction.
The Centre is a sacred place blessed by The Dalai Lama in 2004, its physical space is infused with positive energy due to the collective practices, prayers, chanting and meditation of great Teachers and community members over the many years. The Centre not only assists beginners with introduction into Buddhism it also lends support, assisting those that need help developing a consistent practice. The in-person interactions allow for a more direct transmission of compassion and wisdom helping to develop a deeper understanding of the Teachings. This sense of community is essential for spiritual growth and support.