Akuppa, Touching the Earth
Our Open Space is an opportunity for you to practise with other meditators. Our only expectations are to observe silence and respect our safe space, with consideration for others.
We recognise that there are many forms of meditation practice including focusing on the breath, contemplation, visualisation, mantra repetition, body sweeping, mindfulness, reflection, development of insight and loving kindness.
We meet every Friday afternoon at The Parish Centre, which is off The Parade, opposite Holy Trinity Church. We are close to town for convenience but secluded enough to provide an appropriate atmosphere.
Starting at 5pm, sessions have three parts, separated by the sound of a bell
1. Sitting or reclining meditation.
2. Walking meditation or yoga practice.
3. Sitting or reclining meditation.
Each session offers participants the opportunity to practise meditation with others. It is a silent hour, but with an opportunity for discussion at the end. It is open to anyone who would like to join but may be most suitable for people who have an established meditation practice.
Participants are welcome to bring their own cushions, mats, etc. but many of us use the chairs in the hall. If you are completely new to meditation, we recommend that you take a look at our resources page where there are links to experienced teachers who will be able to support you.
Science-backed meditation and mindfulness tools.
IMS is one of the Western world’s oldest and most-respected meditation retreat centers.
The Mindfulness Association offers structured online beginners' courses, inspired by Tibetan Buddhist teacher Rob Nairn.
Guided meditations by Jon Kabat-Zinn
Talks by Adyashanti.
For those who prefer to read, we recommend the following books: The Miracle of Mindfulness by Thich Nhat Hanh and Wherever You Go, There You Are by Jon Kabat-Zinn