Practice Afternoon
with Maitreyi and Paramabodhi
An afternoon of sustained collective practice to set conditions for going deeper in the midst of our every-day life. This is a special event for Order Members and Mitras. The structure of the session will be as follows:
1) Meditation session I, led by Maitreyi
We’ll be setting up the conditions for a depth of practice through guidance into active relaxation with Alexander Technique Semi-supine followed by Just Sitting.
2) Silent tea break
3) Meditation session II, led by Paramabodhi
Mindful meditation taking inspiration from the Satipatthana Sutta. This is one of the most influential meditation texts in Buddhism and can support us to live with more embodied awareness, contentment, and insight.
4) Mindful DiscussionAn opportunity for people to discuss their practice and learn from each other, as well as from Maitreyi and Paramabodhi.
About the event leaders:
Maitreyi came to the LBC to learn meditation in 1978, soon after it opened. She lived and worked at Tiratanaloka for many years during which she became a private and public preceptor. She returned to London to live in a women’s community in 2019 and has continued teaching meditation and the Dharma in different contexts.
Paramabodhi was ordained over 40 years ago and has spent many of those years contemplating and teaching from the Satipatthana Sutta. He has taught at centres in the USA and UK. He currently works full time as an artist (aka Hugh Mendes) and teacher in London, while also teaching meditation and Buddhism.
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
