Frequently Asked Questions about Meditation Practice
Do I have to be a Buddhist to benefit from meditation?
No. Anyone can learn basic meditation and experience the benefits. Buddhists respect all people and are happy to help anyone regardless of whether they subscribe to another faith, or to none.
What if I'm completely new to meditation?
Welcome to a time-honored and fully integrated mind-body philosophy and meditation system that, if done systematically, correctly, and with the desire to help other people, creates wisdom, compassion, permanent freedom and everlasting happiness in the mind. People come to meditation for many different reasons: relief of stress, relaxation, overcoming a personal problem, inner peace, health benefits, a positive mind, a practical spiritual path, and an increasing ability to help others. You can find all these benefits by practicing the meditations taught here.
Will my being experienced in meditation be a problem?
We welcome you. Your previous experience can help you with many aspects of Kadampa Buddhism. If it is your intention to deeply pursue a spiritual path, it is important to remember that all Buddhist masters advise us to choose a path wisely and to follow it sincerely, gratefully, and thoroughly. Each authentic tradition possesses its own special qualities. Should you choose the Kadampa path as your own, that is wonderful. Should you choose another path, follow it whole-heartedly with our blessings and good wishes.
I have a specific problem in my life. Is it true that this practice can help?
Yes. The Kadampa path heals and transforms the mind, granting access to deep relaxation, happiness, and inner peace. Our practitioners are compassionate people who will offer you help through the immediate and effective application of Buddhist wisdom and practice to your specific problem. Ask someone.
I can't seem to do the meditations. What do I do?
Keep a light and happy mind, make steady effort, and you will find that your concentration naturally improves. We will do our best to answer your questions if you have them and lift your concerns if you voice them. Your confusion will clear if you take the time to deeply and thoroughly contemplate each aspect of the teachings and put them into practice in your life.
How often should I meditate and what meditations should I do?
To begin with, getting into the habit of coming regularly once or twice a week to meditation classes will recharge your batteries and make a big difference. Once you feel ready, it is very helpful to engage in these meditations at home on a regular basis--you will soon notice their positive effects on your life. Start with breathing meditation until your concentration is stronger, and then gently start doing the other meditations. Meditating once a day is recommended, even it is only for 5, 10, or 15 minutes. This helps us maintain a positive, sane perspective on the rest of the day. If you come to classes regularly, you will gradually learn more meditations that you can start doing in a cycle. Eventually, you will know how to incorporate all the meditations you have learned into a 3-week cycle of 21 meditations called "Lamrim," or the "stages of the path to enlightenment." Always feel free to ask the teacher for advice on your individual meditation practice.
What books should I read?
You can start with Transform Your Life. If you wish to do the cycle of Lamrim meditations, you can use The New Meditation Handbook. Additional commentary to these 21 meditations can be found in Introduction to Buddhism and Joyful Path of Good Fortune. Browse a Tharpa catalog to see what else catches your interest, and feel free to ask for advice.