Join the early morning meditation group and benefit from the support of practicing with others as we cultivate deeper awareness, presence and clarity. This is an opportunity to sit in silence and presence, find your centre, understand more about your self and explore the practice of compassion and wisdom within community.

This is intended to be an inclusive space for:

• people who are new to meditation who would like to sit for a short period and learn more about meditation

• people who have some meditation experience who would like to sit with others develop their practice

• experienced meditators looking for an early morning opportunity for sustained meditation practice over consecutive 20-30 minute periods of sitting

Verbal guidance will be available during some meditation periods for those are taking their first steps into meditation practice.

To support our practice, we will lightly touch upon Buddhist meditation practice such as:

• The Xin Xin Ming - a key text in Chan and Zen Buddhism

• The Lojong, a series of slogans and phrases that help to transform everyday challenges into opportunities for mindfulness, selflessness and understanding.

• 37 practices of a Bodhisattva

In short, in everything you do,

Know what is happening in your mind.

By being constantly present and aware

You bring about what helps others — this is the practice of a bodhisattva.

This class is suitable for all abilities, with no previous experience required.

About this event:

• Dates - 8.00 - 9.00am every Wednesday

• Each sitting meditation period will last 20 minutes. There will also be walking meditation and short discussions of supportive texts.

• Price*: Free to attend

• Location - Upstairs @ Open House. Please arrive 5-10 minutes before class to settle onto the mat.

• Equipment - Yoga mats and equipment will be available to borrow, you’re also welcome to bring your own

• Booking - to book your spot please click below

• More About Matt.

  I have held safe and liminal spaces for people of all walks of life, backgrounds and ages for over fifteen years. I am an authorised teacher with the Tse Qigong Centre, a special needs practitioner, community musician and trainer specialising in non-violent communication and social learning leadership. This experience, together with my Chan Buddhist practice, means I can confidently support people with many different physical, mental and emotional needs.

  I live with my daughter and beautiful golden doodle Bella in the Hope Valley, where I enjoy foraging with my partner, playing live music for ecstatic dance and run a folk band for young people.

• More About Meditation.

  Zen Meditation strengthens mindfulness, which is the practice of being fully present and aware of one's thoughts, feelings, and bodily sensations. This heightened awareness carries over into daily life, allowing one to respond to situations with greater clarity, focus, and non-reactivity.