Virtual: Samadhi and shamatha: an intro to the practices of stability with Michael Lobsang Tenpa

Wednesdays 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd & 30th September 7:30pm-9:30pm

Samadhi and shamatha: an intro to the practices of stability

The contemplative practice of shamatha (Tibetan: zhine), or calm abiding, is a sophistical means for cultivating attentional stability (samadhi) and refining the flow of our mental energy. Although typically used as a precursor for the practices of insight and kindness, it also brings its own benefits—among them, a sense of inner stability in the midst of a challenging world that tugs at our attention so mercilessly.

The Indo-Tibetan contemplative tradition developed numerous techniques for cultivating shamatha, suitable for different personality types and propensities. It also offers an extremely detailed description of how attentional training unfolds, along with clear definitions for every psychological tool involved—such mental functions as mindfulness, introspection, single pointedness, and so forth. By integrating this knowledge into our meditative practice, we can develop both the expertise and the motivation necessary to sustain our journey to mental balance.

This six-part course offered by Michael Lobsang Tenpa will serve as a foundational intro (or a reminder) to the practices of shamatha, offering an outline of the initial stages of the path and a practical introduction to some of the most common (and useful) techniques. Our communal goal is to develop some confidence in our practice, knowing that we can both explain what we’re doing in our practice and continue gradually progressing.

(For yoga teachers, it is also an intro to the most basic forms of shamatha that can be gently offered in the context of a group session)