Free Meditation

Introduction to Meditation
Mondays, 6:30 - 7:00am with anne
Wednesdays, 5:30-6:00pm with kim
Thursdays 6:30-7am with kim

Practice: No experience Necessary
Friday 7:00-8am with jonathan

Maybe you’ve heard of recent research studies suggesting that meditation improves immune functioning and the capacity for joy. Or maybe you’d like a break from the constant stress in your life. Even if you’re just curious about what meditation is all about, this free class will introduce you to the basic principles of Buddhist meditation in a soothing and relaxing environment. Discussion and Q&A will be included. No experience necessary.

You will learn:

• how to sit comfortably
• how to follow your breath in meditation
• skills for working with difficult thoughts
• guidelines to continuing your practice at home

Jonathan McMenamin-Balano’s interest in meditation began at a young age. He has practiced regularly for over eight years. His focus is Buddhist Mindfulness Meditation and the process of working with where the mind wants to go while sitting. As an instructor of Anatomy and Physiology, Jonathan uses his understanding of the human body at both the gross and molecular levels to help explain what your body is experiencing.

Anne Dutton, M.A., R.Y.T. began her meditation practice in Japan in 1979. During her initial training she spent eight years in Japan studying with Zen master Yamada Koun. She is currently a member of the Ring of Bone Zendo in Nevada City, California and Stony Creek Sangha in New Haven. She has served annually for the past ten years as a leader at Zen sesshin (intensive meditation retreats). She holds a Master's Degree in Buddhist Studies from Yale University and is a certified Yoga teacher.

Kim Koopmann, R.Y.T. discovered meditation when she began practicing yoga in 2002. Her meditation practice has deepened over the years especially while completing her 200 hour teacher training with YOGASpirit Studios. She has also studied meditation with Yogarupa Rod Stryker and at the Himalayan Institute where she has learned yoga and meditation methods brought to the US by Swami Rama. Through local workshops Kim has also gained some experience in Buddhist mindful meditation. Kim’s main focus is on creating a sense of comfort and ease for the meditator by using guided relaxation and visualization techniques to help in establishing a clear, calm and peaceful mind and a means to connect with the true self.