The practice of mindfulness meditation is traditionally done with eyes closed. Exceptions to this are often made for those who have anxiety or panic attacks, who have been physically or sexually abused as children or attacked as adults, and those who suffer from PTSD from any source. Starting with a soft focus or eyes open [...]
Many people find that meditating first thing in the morning works well. Whether you meditate before coffee and email or afterwards depends on your personal preference. We encourage students to be curious about their experience and what works best for them. Times to generally avoid are when you are tired, immediately after eating or when [...]
Yes you can. Enlightenment would indeed be a strange thing if it could only be attained in a few postures! Chairs, benches, cushions, couches, and beds are fine support for meditation. How you sit is far less important than whether the posture supports mental alertness. Westerners tend to grow up sitting on chairs, not squatting [...]
Every teacher has his or her strengths and weaknesses. Some can help with meditation, some with learning dhamma and some with the practical application to everyday life experience. In all cases, comfort and trust are essential. And if you find a teacher trying to become your friend or something more intimate, telling you to do [...]
Skillful teachers will help in ways that are specific to your experience and need. Their example, their presence and their accessibility creates an experience that goes beyond information or interpretation of a text. Great care needs to be taken when selecting a teacher. There are various organizations that offer training and "certification" as mindfulness facilitators [...]
Some people find learning from a book a good point of departure. Others prefer podcasts, talks or videos available from teachers via the Internet. If you are in a location where there are no accessible experienced teachers, then these types of resources become invaluable assets. But virtual teachers can’t answer your questions, adjust your posture, confirm [...]
Meditating builds mental muscle. Some initially find it difficult and tiring. Then it flows and we see new strength. It’s like learning to dance: at first it is difficult and awkward, then stiff and by the numbers, then smooth and flowing. The Buddha says we practice ardently, clearly comprehending, and mindfully.
Results will vary based on many factors. Some people get results quickly, others slowly. Our courses allow enough time to help you get grounded and begin to practice regularly on your own. The initial results are usually hard won, but then things gradually change and become much easier.
We start from the very beginning with the nuts-and-bolts of posture and the clarification of myths, intentions and process. We start with meditation periods of 10 minutes and then process students’ experiences during the meditation.
There are several different intentions for chanting. Chanting was traditionally used to help memorize the teachings of the Buddha. Chanting is also used to increase concentration and absorption, often creating the conditions to experience the absence of self. At the Insight Center, chanting only happens on special occasions, such as on the Buddha’s Birthday (Wesok).