Category: Classes

Past Classes and Retreats

SOCIALLY ENGAGED BUDDHISM DISCUSSION GROUP

​Please join our Zoom discussion group about socially engaged Buddhism, which “is a contemporary form of Buddhism that engages actively yet nonviolently with the social, economic, political…and ecological problems of society” (Sallie B. King, 2009). We will meet on 6 consecutive Tuesday evenings, 7:00 – 8:30pm, September 22 through October 27. We will suggest readings, videos, and other resources to review between sessions, to be discussed together in the weekly meetings. This group is intended for anyone who wishes to learn about socially engaged Buddhism.
 
The discussion group will be facilitated by Jim Whiteside and Jackie Miller. If you would like to join us, please contact Jim to let us know of your interest and to send us your email address (so we can send you the Zoom invitations, resource links, etc.).

Still Mountain Buddhist Meditation Center Fall Retreat: The Threshold and Transitional States

Friday November 1st 5:00pm thru Sunday November 3rd 1pm 2019
DeSales Retreat Center 1124 Ventura Drive Brooklyn MI 49230
Retreat and Teachings offered on a *Dana Basis

About the Retreat
We move through transitional states every day of our lives, and sometimes intense transitions may last and may be disorienting.  These in-between states, however, are filled to the brim with potential and when recognized for what they are and approached with patience and curiosity can be life changing and a source for deep intuitive learning and creative expression.

When we enter the threshold, standing at the gate’s steps, between “this” and “that” we have entered a bardo state, as described in Buddhism, or a “liminal state” as known in modern psychology.  In this retreat, we will explore the capacity of each of us to rest in such states and thereby gain a surprising kind of freedom and new perspective on our lives. In essence, we learn to accept our experience and trust ourselves.

Teachings will be offered on the potential of transitional states, with much time for personal reflection and some limited discussion, all within a container of silence and meditation. 

*Cost: This retreat is offered freely with an opportunity for Dana to anyone who participates. Most of the financial support for Still Mountain Sponsored & Lead Retreats comes from donations participants offer at the end of the retreat. Their generosity is what allows others to participate in this and & future retreats. A refundable deposit is required to apply for a retreat. The deposit is refunded when one arrives at the retreat or if one cancels three weeks before the start of the retreat.

Beginning Insight Meditation

This class will lead students step by step through beginning insight meditation and related mindfulness practices. We will share ways to work toward becoming more present with our experience, explore how mindfulness may enrich our daily lives, and investigate ways of applying practices to difficulties with stress that we experience. Although historically the techniques come from Buddhist traditions, this course has no religious content and will approach the practices from a down-to-earth, secular perspective. The class is intended mainly for persons with no previous meditation experience, but all are welcome. Wear comfortable clothing.

Details:

  • Led by Jim Whiteside
  • Wednesdays, 10/9 – 11/13, 6:30 – 8:30pm
  • Pioneer High School Media Center
  • Through Ann Arbor Public Schools Community Education &  Recreation (Rec & Ed) 

Beginning Meditation for Mindful Aging

Training our mind to become mindful is a doorway for a life’s lasting transformation. In this course, you’ll learn about mindfulness and concentration practices in a kind and supportive environment as you take your first steps toward establishing a mindful meditation practice. 

You will also learn supportive practices to open the heart and calm the mind. Class activities included meditation instruction, practice and discussion. All are welcome; this class is suitable for beginners and those wanting to refresh and deepen their practice.

Details:

  • ​Tuesday, 9:30-11:30
  • September 17, 24 October 1, 8, 15, 22
  • Turner Senior Center, 2401 Plymouth Rd., Ann Arbor, MI