The Individual and the Spiritual Community
A six-week course
Starts 21 Oct | 7.15 – 9.45pm | In person, book online
Led by Dayanatha and Amalashri
A Practical Course in Mindfulness
Led by Maitreyabandhu, Amalashri and Jayada
Eight weeks | Starts Wed 4 Feb | 7.15–9.45pm | In person or online
We live in an age of unprecedented connection, yet many people feel more isolated than ever. Society is increasingly fragmented into competing identities, political tribes and online echo chambers.
The Buddhist path offers a radically different vision. It leads beyond the identities that divide us towards the development of genuine individuality – not the isolated individualism celebrated by modern culture, but a way of being guided by wisdom, compassion and awareness. At the same time, it leads us towards a form of community based not on shared opinions or identities, but on a shared commitment to truth, friendship and spiritual growth.
Course Description
Drawing on the teachings of Sangharakshita, this six-week course explores one of the most important questions of our time: how can we become truly free while creating communities that help others to become free too? It explores one of his central insights: that genuine individuality and genuine community arise together through the practice of the Dharma.
Through study of key Buddhist texts, meditation and discussion, we'll explore:
- How to honour your background while transcending a limiting sense of identity
- How to rise above peer pressure through cultivating genuine friendship
- Why true individuality is what the world needs more than ever
Structure of the Course
Week 1
The Individual
Week 2
The Group and the Spiritual Community
Week 3
The Voice Within
Week 4
Spiritual Friendship
Week 5
Beyond Individuality
Week 6
The Individual and the World
Is this course for me?
The course is presented in a way that is accessible to all as no prior experience of meditation or Buddhism is necessary. It would also be ideal for those who have some familiarity with Buddhist practice, have been coming along to the LBC for some time and would like to gain a deeper perspective on working with the mind.
So, this course is for anyone interested in taking up the quest for growth and meaning.
Testimonials
Led by
Pricing
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I get the most from the course?
Here are some top tips for taking part:
Come every week – whether you feel like it or not. If you look for motivation before you do something, you reverse your motivation; mostly you only want to do something when you’re actually doing it.
Come early – so you can lie down in the shrine room and have a nap, you probably need it and you’ll get more from the class if you do.
Do your ‘home practice’ every day – then each week you’ll be in a small group to check in about how that went.
What if I can’t make every session?
Do sign-up even if you know you can’t make every session, as you will be able to catch-up from the weekly emails.
If you are going to miss a class – email the home group leader so we know and can let others know. And do come back the following week. Don’t feel guilty for not having attended, just come back and start again.
How to take part if I bought the online element?
You will receive a welcome email with a zoom link and all the details.
What if I can’t afford it?
If money is a barrier to you booking on a course, we would be happy to discuss other ways to help you book on. You can use the Low Income Rate or contact the bookings office:
bookings@lbc.org.uk02087099978(10am-5pm weekdays)
You can read more information about payments and cancellations on our Bookings Policy page here.
