Meditation Courses in South West London

January - April 2012 Meditation Classes (further logistical details found on timetable page click here)
(No classes with Angus on Wednesday 29th Feb 2012)
1. Wed 6.30pm with Angus; Anthony De Mello 'Awareness' click here to purchase
2. Wed 8pm with Angus;  Cynthia Bourgeault 'The Wisdom Way of Knowing' click here to purchase
3. Thur 8pm with Mel; Charlotte Joko-Beck 'Nothing Special: Living Zen' click here to purchase

If you are attending a class that follows a book, please read in advance.

Payment options: All classes can be booked as a term (click here), as a drop-in on the night, or a 10 class discount ticket (click here) which is also redeemable at all hatha yoga classes.

Why learn meditation and mindfulness?
Most of us are aware that our minds are too busy; that we create enormous stress in our lives by having over-active minds. The question remains however, what can we do about it?  Meditation is one tried and tested means of correcting this imbalance. 

Those who learn meditation and create a regular practice soon report many wonderful changes within their lives including reduced stress and increased relaxation.

For the last 3000 years at least, humans have found they can rediscover an inner peace and well-being through the practice of meditation.  And over the last few decades, doctors and researchers have also carried out a significant amount of research into the effectiveness of various meditation techniques.
         
Here is a list of meditation benefits as validated through scientific research:
  • reduced tension and anxiety
  • increase tolerance of stress
  • reduced insomnia
  • improved learning, memory and concentration
  • improved ability to relate to others
  • slowing of the aging process
  • increased energy
  • improved general health and physical functioning of the body
  • greater capacity to enjoy life

Who are these meditation courses for?
Battersea Yoga's meditation groups are for anyone who wishes to discover the benefits of meditation.  No previous experience or beliefs are required, all you need is an open mind, a little patience and a desire to learn an age-old practice.

What is the format of the classes?
1)  Remember to bring the course book (if applicable to your course)
2)  Arrive in time to get a cup of tea: Students arrive 10 minutes before the meditation group begins, with tea and biscuits available. Once settled, we sit (on a cushion or chair) to begin the session with a short 'check-in'.
3)  Guided meditation for 10-15 minutes (the guided meditation will be different each week)
4)  A short talk on the current chapter of the course book (please note, this is a relaxed group atmosphere with no pressure on you to speak up unless you want to).
5)  Open discussion: the subject matter is opened up for discussion amongst the group, allowing us to explore ways in which we can bring peace and equanimity into our lives.
6)  All the meditation courses, regardless of the particular book we are studying, will convey a number of key meditation techniques and skills, including ways to enter meditation relaxation, deepen your understanding of ancient spiritual practices and let go of habitual stress.

FAQs
I have never done any meditation before. Can I still join a course?
Yes, of course. Many people who attend the beginner's course are completely new to it, so you will be in good company.

I suffer from stress, panic attacks and anxiety - will these courses help me?
Meditation is about calming the mind and moving beyond panic and fear. So, yes, these courses can be very helpful in resolving these common issues. This is certainly the experience of many students who have passed through the course.

I can't attend all of the dates of the course due to other commitments - should I still attend?
Yes. Most students will miss some classes during the term, so don't worry. Any missed classes can be used up at a later date as Hatha classes on Monday nights at Chatham hall. (see timetable)

I find sitting uncomfortable - how will I sit for meditation at the classes?
You will have a choice of sitting on cushions or a chair - the choice will be yours. You sit any way you are comfortable. Comfort is key!

Can I invite a friend to join the course?
Yes! The only requirement is that all students who attend have a genuine desire to learn and practice meditation. Many people come on their own however, and are delighted to discover they make lots of new friends.

Missed Classes
Please note: missed meditation classes can be used at any Hatha Yoga class, just let the teacher know on arrival.  See Timetable and Bookings page.