Buddhist Meditation, Philosophy & Practices 2025

With Hobart Buddhist Meditation Centre

We run weekly sessions that include instruction in Buddhist meditation practices, presentations of Buddhist teachings, together with opportunities for questions and discussion in a supportive group. Beginners are very welcome.

During 2025 we will present and investigate the Stages of the Path to Enlightenment, one of the major texts of Tibetan Buddhism. This text outlines a progressive path of mental and emotional transformation involving study, contemplation and meditation. This path enables ordinary people like us to develop increasing levels of mental calm, kindness, happiness, and clarity about reality. These qualities enable us to live more skilfully and to help others more effectively.

Hobart Buddhist Meditation Centre continues to offer this program every year in recognition of the deepening understanding and transformation that results from repeated study and contemplation of the Stages of the Path. The sessions are presented by senior students who have studied and practiced Buddhist teachings for several decades. We value questions and discussion during our sessions!

• The first Tuesday of each month is devoted to introducing and practising various types of Buddhist meditation. This is a great opportunity to learn to meditate from experienced meditators in a supportive environment.

• For the remaining Tuesdays of each month, we present the Buddhist philosophical framework and the logical arguments and ethical guidelines that, when contemplated and practiced, lead to transformation of the mind and heart.

Please Note: For people experiencing mental health conditions, meditation is not a substitute for professional clinical treatment. Furthermore, meditation may be harmful for people experiencing Complex Trauma, PTSD, significant Substance Dependence or Psychotic Disorders. If in doubt, please seek advice from a psychologist or psychiatrist before attending.

March Program

During March, we will investigate three contemplations whose purpose is to constantly remind us why we are practicing Dharma.  First, Andy McIntosh will lead us to contemplate our precious human birth and its potential.  Usually, we take our human birth for granted and do not appreciate how precious it is until we have lost it.   Second, Sue Willey will lead us in contemplating impermanence and the inevitability of death.  Recognizing these facts of existence will give us a powerful motivation to practice.   Finally, Maurice Oliver will lead us in contemplating the possibility of future lives in circumstances which are not as fortunate as we currently enjoy, and which are not conducive to practicing Dharma.   

Without these contemplations, our practice will lack stability and we risk being endlessly distracted by the myriad affairs of daily life – our work, family, study, friendships, recreations etc. We also risk being complacent about our situation – “I’ll practice the Dharma when the kids are older, after I complete my degree, when I retire. I’m too busy now.” These contemplations will provide us with a strong foundation for our Dharma practice.

4th Mar:              Meditation Practice Session (Kate MacNicol)

11th Mar:         Precious Human Birth / Rebirth (Andy McIntosh)

18th Mar:            Impermanence & Death (Sue Willey)

25th Mar:            Reflecting on Future Lives (Maurice Oliver)

LOCATION

• You can attend the sessions in person at Kickstart Arts in New Town, Hobart or via Zoom. The venue is wheelchair accessible. The Zoom link will be sent via email after you book.

COST

• There is no charge for attending these sessions, however you are encouraged to make a donation toward Hobart Buddhist Meditation Centre’s ongoing running costs when booking a ticket. Suggested donation $5-$25 per session, according to your circumstances.

WHAT YOU'LL GET

• An opportunity to learn and practice mindfulness and other Buddhist meditation practices.
• An introduction and explanation of both basic and more advanced teachings of the Buddha.
• A supportive environment to discuss and ask questions about Buddhist teachings and practice.

WHAT TO BRING

• Your curiosity, interest and intention to learn more about Buddhism.
• A cushion or two if you wish to meditate in a traditional cross-legged posture.
• Meditating while sitting on a chair or lying on the floor is also fine if this is more comfortable for you.

Got a question? Please contact info@tashicholing.net