Drop-In Events at Nagaloka — in-person or online
Our weekly, drop-in events are an opportunity for everyone – from new meditators to long-time Buddhists – to enjoy a session of meditation and discussion of Buddhists teachings.
There is no expectation that people attending Nagaloka will be Buddhists or agree with all Buddhist teachings. Our events provide an opportunity to learn-and-test-out Buddhist practices in the light of one’s own experience, and in an atmosphere of friendly, encouraging, open communication.
What is Nagaloka / Triratna? The Nagaloka Buddhist Center in Portland, Maine supports the study-and-practice of meditation as well as the Buddhist ideals of mindfulness, compassion, generosity, and wisdom. Nagaloka is one of many Centers around the world affiliated with the Triratna Buddhist Order, which was founded in 1967 by Sangharakshita so people with modern lifestyles could benefit from teachings drawn from all Buddhist schools.
What Happens at Drop-In Events? An experienced Buddhist practitioner facilitates activities such as…
- Check-In: attendees introduce themselves, perhaps sharing what is on their minds.
- A few minutes of chanting (handout)
- Lightly-guided meditation, with the level of guidance tailored to those attending. The meditation is one of two forms:
- Mindfulness-of-Breathing mediation calms the body and stills the mind. The facilitator initially instructs you to count your exhales, then to count your inhales, and eventually to drop the counting and focus on the bodily experience of breathing in and out. (handout)
- Loving-Kindness (Metta Bhavana) mediation cultivates positive emotion. The facilitator instructs you to cultivate loving kindness for yourself (may I be well, may I be happy, may I grow & develop), and then to cultivate the same feelings for someone you like, then someone you don’t know well, then someone you find challenging, and then all beings. (handout)
- Teaching of Buddhist ideas and practices; this is either done with a formal talk followed by discussion (Friend’s Night on Wednesdays and some Mondays) or informally as part of open discussion (Sundays and some Mondays).
Special Events: sessions occasionally feature guest speakers or devotional ceremonies; these events are announced in our weekly e-newsletter.
Newcomers are encouraged to arrive at the Center a few minutes early to be oriented and helped with meditation seating.
All are welcome! Please join us for a peaceful evening of purpose and community.
Donation (dana): Nagaloka is a non-profit funded by individual contributions. Suggested donation for a drop in event is $5—$10. “Give what you can; take what you need.”
11/24, Dridha