Beginner's Meditation Class
Join us for a full day of hands-on instruction and practice in Chan/Zen meditation, grounded in the Dharma Drum lineage of Chan Master Sheng Yen. This class is designed for beginners and no prior experience is necessary. Whether you have never sat in meditation before or have tried on your own without much guidance, this is where to start.
Over the course of the day, you'll be introduced to the essential elements of meditation:
Settling the body
Working with the breath
Bringing the mind to a place of calm and clarity
You will explore:
Sitting and moving forms of practice
Key principles behind them
How to carry that quality of presence into everyday life
Each topic is introduced and practiced, so the learning stays grounded in direct experience throughout the day. Please note that this is a full-day program, not a drop-in class; participants are asked to arrive on time and remain for the entire session, as the practice builds continuously from morning through afternoon. You will leave with everything you need to sit on your own, and to join our regular weekly group meditation sessions and half-day retreats here at the center. Lunch is included. A brief eating meditation will be offered as time permits.
About the teacher
Peter Lin, a licensed psychologist, received an M.S. in Biostatistics from Columbia University and a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Yeshiva University. His primary clinical training was at Weill Cornell Medical College, and his postdoctoral training was at the HIV Research Center of Columbia University. Peter has great interest in the parallelism between Western psychology and Buddhism. He integrates Chan teachings in his clinical work, and his research interest focuses on the effects of mindfulness meditation. Peter started his Buddhist practice in 1988, and in 2003 began his Chan practice at Dharma Drum Mountain. Peter is a psychology professor and has a private practice in NYC.
Requirements & What to Expect
Please read the following before registering:
Doors open at 8:30 AM. Please arrive by 8:45 AM so you can get settled before we begin promptly at 9:00 AM.
Attending only part of the day is not permitted. This class builds continuously from morning through afternoon.
Out of respect for all participants and the teacher, we ask that everyone commit to the full day. Late arrivals and early departures are disruptive to the group's practice.
Please plan to silence your phone and watch. We ask for these to support the quality of your practice and that of everyone in the room.
Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows you to sit and move easily. Refrain from wearing perfumes, colognes, or strong-smelling lotions.
Please avoid a heavy meal before arriving. A light breakfast is fine. Lunch is provided.
No prior meditation experience is required. Chairs are available for those who prefer not to sit on a cushion.
What to Bring
To help reduce waste, please bring your own water bottle or travel thermos.
A light jacket or wrap in case the hall is cool.
Your personal meditation cushion or bench, if you prefer (cushions and chairs are available at the center).
An open mind.
Cost
Suggested donation: $50.
All of our events are free of charge. If you'd like support us, please consider making a donation.