The meditation classes run by Heruka KMC are for all levels. There is no need to book and you can join at any time. All classes are self-contained and no previous experience is required. The methods taught are beneficial to everyone, whether Buddhist or not. We meditate sitting on chairs and there is no physical exercise involved or any special clothing needed. Everyone is welcome.

Most classes run for an hour and a half (or 45 minutes at lunchtime) and consist of:

• A short prayer for world peace to prepare for meditation
• A simple guided meditation
• A talk on how to solve problems and find real happiness in daily life
• A guided meditation based on the teaching
• A chance to discuss the session after the class over a cup of tea

All proceeds are used to make Kadampa Buddhist meditation widely available.

What weekly classes are available?
Weekly meditation classes mainly take place in the evening – Heruka KMC now runs weekly meditation classes at over 15 venues in and around London. Weekly classes cover all the essential ideas in Buddhism in a simple, structured and down-to-earth way, and enable us to learn how to meditate and then make steady progress.

Do I need to be Buddhist to attend a meditation class?
No. We try to present Buddha’s teachings in a way that is accessible to everyone, and no religious obligation is required.

Do I need to have experience of meditation or Buddhism to attend a meditation class?
No. Everyone is welcome, including beginners.

If I’m a complete beginner, should I attend a weekly class or a weekend event?
Either is fine; it really depends on your own circumstances and preference. Weekly classes are shorter and the groups are smaller, whereas weekend events attract larger audiences and take place over a half or full day.

What should I expect at a meditation class?
The classes begin with simple prayers, followed by a relaxation meditation. Then there will be a talk covering the basics of meditation and Buddhism, emphasising how these can be applied to daily life. Finally, if there is time, there is a second meditation and questions-and-answers. Buddhist books will be on sale for further reading. The classes usually conclude with light refreshments and an opportunity to get to know people informally.

Will I be asked to say anything, or speak in front of a group of people?
No. But you can ask questions if you want to.

Is there any physical exercise involved, such as yoga?
No. The courses focus on meditation alone.

What do I need to bring?
Nothing in particular. However, some people find it useful to bring a notepad and pen.

How should I dress?
There are no special requirements, but comfortable clothing is generally best.

If I want to attend a weekly class, do I need to wait for the next course of classes to begin?
No. Each class is self-contained. You can drop in whenever you can, and start whenever you like.

Do I need to book in advance?
For weekly classes it is not necessary to book in advance.

“The benefits of the teachings given in this course are, through sincerely practising these teachings you can solve your daily problems such as the problems of anger, attachment, jealousy and ignorance. You can maintain a peaceful mind all the time so that you will be happy all the time. You can maintain harmony and good relationships with your family, friends and others so that you can make others happy too. Especially you can make your human life very meaningful.

The benefits of training in meditation are, through sincerely training in meditation on the teachings given in this course you will attain spiritual realisations, which lead you to permanent liberation from all the sufferings of this life and countless future lives. There is no greater meaning than this. Even temporarily, whenever you experience problems, unpleasant feelings, depression or unhappiness you can solve these problems immediately by transforming your mind into peace through your meditation practice. The benefits of meditation are immeasurable”

Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso, the Founder of Heruka Kadampa Meditation Centre – the main Kadampa Buddhist Centre in North London.