Have you ever tried meditating and found the whole thing confusing and frustrating? Maybe you've wondered, why am I even trying to do this? There's a lot of talk about how helpful meditation is--some people even describe it as life changing. Sounds intriguing! But what does meditation actually do for our minds? And how exactly do we do it?

We're piloting a new class, "Meditation and Why it Matters," to address these questions. We strongly believe that meditation is a powerful tool to learn and practice components of self-observation, self-regulation, and genuine self-compassion. The series will include guided meditation along with discussion of how meditation can enrich our relationships with ourselves and others. Each class will include meditation instruction, meditation practice, a brief talk on the topics below, and small group discussion. The class is appropriate for anyone interested in meditation and its application to everyday life, from newcomers to experienced practitioners.

Each class will be held on Tuesday evening from 6:00-7:15 p.m. EST on Zoom.

Class 1, 11/1: Foundations of meditation and self-compassion

Class 2, 11/8 : Meditation and working with our thoughts

Two week break

Class 3, 11/29: Meditation and working with our emotions

Class 4, 12/6: Integrating meditation into everyday life

The class is structured as a series, so please plan to attend all classes if possible. The cost of the series is $95. 

Alisha is a psychotherapist and leadership coach based in Baltimore, Maryland. She is a graduate of the Karuna Basic Training Program in Contemplative Psychology and is currently completing the Karuna Graduate program through the Upaya Institute. Alisha has received training on meditation instruction through these programs and other dharma teachings. She has participated in ongoing meditation circles as well as meditation retreats. She is passionate about utilizing meditation as a tool to cultivate self-awareness, a sound mind, and true self-compassion.

Sam Hanft is a psychotherapist based in Baltimore, Maryland. He has been studying and practicing Buddhism and other contemplative traditions for over a decade, including a year spent in residential retreat. Sam has found the view and practice of meditation to be of immense value for personal healing and growth; he is committed to integrating contemplative perspectives into his psychotherapy practice and sharing them with the world more broadly. He is also a graduate of the Karuna Basic Training Program in Contemplative Psychology and is currently completing the Karuna Graduate program through the Upaya Institute.