Daytime Buddhism & Meditation Class
Stories from the Wheel of Life
Stories from the Wheel of Life: Tales of heartache and transformation
Tareshvari shares a poignant, yet humorous weave of traditional Buddhist symbols, myths and autobiographical stories.She invites us to journey with her through the depths of the hell realms, to the cool relief of the human realm, to enjoy the seductive pleasures of the world of the gods and to see where that inevitably leads.
The ”Wheel of Life” is an ancient Buddhist symbol. More than a painting, it acts as a magical mirror that we can gaze into and see our true selves reflected back.
Held by Yama (the Lord of Death), who represents impermanence and the fate we will all eventually face. The wheel mirrors both the human condition and our individual, ever changing mental states. It reflects the workings of karma and the cycle of existence, allowing individuals to see their own actions and their consequences.
Thankfully and most importantly, “The Wheel of Life” teaches a path to freedom and through Tareshvari's tales, we may even catch a glimpse of that.
In person at the LBC or live on Zoom.
The class includes guided meditation, a tea break, and a talk on Buddhism. On the first Wednesday of each month, the meditation is followed by a Buddhist ritual.
We offer a crèche, supported by experienced and qualified staff, for children aged 6 months to 5 years. The crèche is located just a few steps away from the class and is free of charge, though donations are welcome. No need to book - just arrive by 10:15 AM to settle your child.
The class is led by Jyotismati, Kalyanavaca and Mangala, with occasional guest speakers. All of them have been teaching and practising meditation and Buddhism for many years.
*Recordings of past talks can be found here: Dropbox
Come in person
Doors open 15 minutes before the start. When you arrive, there'll be someone on reception to help you with any queries. There'll also be short breaks during most events.
Price
We appreciate every amount people feel able to give, no matter how big or small and thank you for your generosity in helping pass on the benefits of the Buddha’s teachings.
Single sex activities
At the LBC we value single-sex activities as a support for one’s deepening spiritual practice and we have men’s and women’s mitra convenors whose role it is to orientate new people into centre activities. If you identify as trans or non-binary then you're very welcome here - do get in touch and we can work out in discussion the best way of participating in the centre for you. We want to engage with everyone on an individual basis, in the spirit of friendship, and for everyone to feel at home at the London Buddhist Centre.
Venue
Opening times
Reception hours | 10am-5pm | Mon to Sat
Evening Classes | 7pm to 9.30pm | Mon to Fri
Sunday events | Check event page for timings
Getting here
Our address is: 51 Roman Rd, Bethnal Green, E20HU. The nearest tube stations within 5-10 minutes walk are Bethnal Green (Central Line and Overground), Cambridge Heath (Overground) and Stepney Green (District and Hammersmith & City lines). There are also lots of bus routes with stops 2-5 minutes from the centre.
How to book
Most of our events are by donation, you don't need to book just simply turn up on the day.
For courses and retreats, pre-booking online is recommended. There’s no need to print your e-ticket.
Plan your visit
An accessible toilet is located in the building.
Cloakroom
You can leave your coats and bags in the cloakroom provided. We ask that you take your footwear off if you plan on entering the shrine room. Please bring any valuable items with you into the class.
Bookshop
There is a bookshop at reception which includes books on Buddhism, Meditation and Mindfulness as well as ritual items, incense and cards. We accept both cash and card.
Access
If you require wheelchair or step free assistance please let reception know upon arrival or call beforehand. Depending on which shrine rooms will be used a team member will be able to assist with the use a ramps and lifts in the building.
Eating and drinking
During some events tea and biscuits are served during breaks while on day retreats and festival days there is vegan lunch shared between all those present.
If you would like to eat before or after an event at the centre the Mandala cafe is next door to the London Buddhist Centre! The Mandala team are friends and Buddhists, and this is a non-profit venture (we are a registered charity) so do come along and experience the unique and friendly atmosphere.
Monday - Friday 8.30am - 7pm
Saturday 10am - 3.30pm
Sunday CLOSED
