introduction to buddhist meditation

You will learn how to overcome distraction, develop tools for transforming disturbing emotions into constructive mental states, and cultivate a sense of contentment and satisfaction with life. 

In this course you will learn the basics about Buddhist meditation and train in various meditation techniques. 

The course is suitable for people encountering both meditation and Buddhism for the first time, as well as for people who have done some meditation in other traditions but would like to know more about how meditation is practiced in the Tibetan Buddhist tradition. It provides an overview of meditation and basic meditation techniques, including breathing meditation, mindfulness meditation, visualization meditation, and analytical meditation. It includes an explanation of what kinds of skills are developed in meditation and how to apply them in daily life.

Each session consists of teachings, Q&A session, and guided meditations suitable for beginners.

The course consists of five sessions: 

Session 1: Meditation in Buddhism

Session 2: Mind in Buddhism

Session 3: Types of meditation and obstacles to meditation

Session 4: The meditation session, meditation place, and visualization meditation

Session 5: Meditation stops the roller coaster of emotions

What will I take away into my daily life?

You will learn to identify unhelpful mental states, such as a distraction and dullness and apply methods to transform them into constructive ones, such as focus and clarity. You will also develop emotional awareness and resilience. You will be able to develop a daily meditation practice. 

Course material

You will have access to course notes, guided meditations, and homework assignments. Recommended reading: “How to Meditate” by Kathleen McDonald which you can buy at our bookshop. 

Is this course for me?

Introduction to Buddhist Meditation and Buddhism in a nutshell are 5 week introductory courses from FPMT. Introduction to Buddhist Meditation can be done either before or after the introductory course Buddhism in a Nutshell, in which Tibetan Buddhist philosophy and principles are explored more extensively. However, if you are new to both Buddhism and meditation it is recommended to begin with Introduction to Buddhist Meditation.

Practical information and how to register

Information about the course date, language, last day of registration, and if the course is also given online, can be found in the respective event. This is also where you register for the course by purchasing a ticket.

Upcoming Introduction to Buddhist meditation courses