Meditation: A Practical Introduction
Tuesdays, 7:00 – 8:30 p.m., September 10 – October 29 (8 sessions)
This course will give participants a comprehensive overview of both the theory and practice of meditation in plain English. The course is based on the material in The Meditative Path which is included with registration. It offers a systematic exploration of meditation beginning with relaxation of the body and mindfulness of breathing to cultivate greater awareness, concentration, and serenity. We continue by broadening the scope of our practice by cultivating mindfulness in daily activities and begin to investigate our inner world of emotions and mental states. It is a process that leads to insight, understanding, and the ability to free ourselves from stress, worry, and other negative tendencies. Each week will include a period of guided meditation.
John Cianciosi, a student of the late Venerable Ajahn Chah, was ordained a Buddhist monk in 1972 and served as spiritual director of monasteries in Thailand and Australia. He is author of The Meditative Path and is currently the director of public programs at the Theosophical Society.
Pre-registration is required.
TS members: $75 • Nonmembers: $85 (includes copy of The Meditative Path)
It's been said a picture is worth a thousand words. If this is true, imagine for a moment how many words must be contained in the 78 cards of the Tarot. The divining capabilities of these symbolic illustrations are staggering. This course will teach you how to use the Tarot for divination, psychic awareness, and tapping into the full potential of the mind. Whether you are intrigued by its mystery, philosophy, or symbolism, you must first learn to "use" the Tarot before delving deeper into its meaning. Students will leave the very first class already able to read their Tarot cards. Get ready for a new way of "seeing" using the Tarot.
Through the practice of T'ai Chi Ch'uan, your mind can achieve a stillness and clarity rarely experienced with other forms of exercise, integrating your body and mind and allowing you to achieve inner peace. This class will help you develop harmony with the world on a physical, mental, emotional and, ultimately, spiritual level. Practice strengthens the immune system; improves posture, balance, coordination, flexibility and strength; reduces blood pressure and stress; and releases tension, allowing a feeling of positive energy to flow through your body. Over the course of the class we will learn the complete 24-posture form.