Weekend Half-day Course
The Joy of No Self
Saturday 9th May
10am – 1.15pm
Cost is £15 per person
You can book in advance below or pay on the door.
Included in Standard and Benefactor memberships.
No self.
One of the most important concepts in Buddhism is the idea of no-self, or emptiness. In the middle of all our painful emotions is an exaggerated and distorted sense of self. Buddha taught that this self – which we grasp at all the time – does not in fact exist. For as long as we continue to hold onto this illusory self we will continue to suffer, but when we see through this illusion our suffering will end for good.
This topic of no-self is profound and easy to misunderstand. Although the self we normally see and grasp at does not exist, this does not mean that we do not exist at all. In fact we need to develop a strong and confident sense of self.
On this course, through teachings, guided meditation and discussion, we will learn how to begin to let go of the distorted sense of self that is the source of all our problems, while at the same time developing a correct sense of self which enables us both to function in the world and to fulfill our spiritual aims.
Venue:
Vajrapani Kadampa Meditation Centre
Wheathouse Terrace,
Huddersfield.
Memberships
If you attend classes and courses on a regular basis, our Memberships are a convenient way of covering the cost and a great way to support the Centre.
About Our Classes
- Each class begins with a simple guided breathing / relaxation meditation
- There is a talk on meditation and positive thinking based on Buddha's teachings.
- Classes conclude with a meditation based on the subject of the teaching.
- After the class you are welcome to stay for light refreshments, talk to the teacher, and ask questions
Benefits of Meditation
- Learn to relax, unwind and experience peace of mind.
- Deal with difficulties and problems in a more constructive way
- Find greater meaning and purpose in life.
- Develop good qualities and positive states of mind such as love, compassion and wisdom.
FAQ's
Why is there a charge for the classes?
We are a registered charity run entirely by volunteers, and not for profit. The funds we receive are used to pay for our venues, operating expenses and maintenance of the centre building. Although there is a charge for the classes we want to make them accessible to all, so If you are struggling with the cost of classes or courses, please speak to us about that, no one will ever be turned away for lack of funds.
Do I have to book online?
Please try to book online for weekend courses and other events. For weekly classes booking online is useful, but you can just turn up and pay on the door. You can also get a discount on all our weekly meditation classes by buying a Series Ticket online.
Do I have to wait for the next series of classes to begin?
No, please feel free to drop in whenever you like. Attending the entire series of classes is highly beneficial, as each class builds on the next. However, each class is taught in such a way that if you only attend one class, you will derive benefit from it.
Will I have to sit on the floor?
Although some classes do have the option to sit on the floor, there are always chairs available. However, If there is a special reason why you need to sit on the floor please let us know and we can reserve a mat for you.
What should I wear?
There are no dress requirements, please wear whatever you feel comfortable in.
We do ask that you remove your shoes when entering the meditation room.
What if I am not religious or practice a religion other than Buddhism?
Everyone is welcome to attend. Anyone can learn basic meditation and experience the benefits. Buddhism is a non-evangelical religion. Buddhists respect all people and are happy to help anyone regardless of whether they subscribe to another faith or to none. We make Buddhas teachings available to everyone with the belief that they are practical methods to solve daily problems.
I have never meditated before, are these classes suitable for me?
Yes, classes are open to everyone regardless of experience. Instructions on how to do the meditations are provided by the teacher who will also guide you through the meditation. If you do struggle with the meditation you can always just sit there and relax for a while!
We need to ask ourself what is the most meaningful way to use our life. What will make us truly happy? What will benefit others most?
