What we’re about
The aim of this group is to make Buddhist teachings more accessible, provide
support and encouragement to people who are new to Buddhism. The roup is also open to anyone who would like to contribute.
The purpose of this group can be described in three beautiful Sanskrit words. 1) “Simran”derived from the word Smaran meaning Remembrance. Also translates to ‘Meditation’ – The verb Simar, which is derived from Simran means meditating. 2) “Satsang”means "gathering together for the truth" or, more simply, "being with the truth." Truth is what is real, what exists. 3) “Seva” means a service which is performed without any expectation of result or award for the person performing it. See link below to a youtube video (40mins mark) of dialogue between Deepak Chopra and Andrew Cohen, where they discuss the relevance of these words to our lives today.
Buddhism sees life as a process of constant change, and its practices aim to take advantage of this fact. It means that one can change for the better, which ultimately leads to happiness. The decisive factor in changing oneself is the mind. Buddhism has developed many methods for working on the mind. Most importantly, Buddhists practice meditation, which is a way of developing more positive states of mind that are characterised by calm, concentration, awareness, and emotions such as friendliness. Using the awareness developed in meditation, it is possible to have a fuller understanding of oneself, other people, and of life itself. Buddhists do not seek ‘evangelise’ or coerce other people to adopt their
religion, but they do seek to make its teachings available to whoever
is interested, and people are free to take.
A Five Minute Introduction to Buddhism: http://www.buddhanet.net/e-learning/5minbud.htm
Basic Buddhist Teaching: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O0Q1lrxQlMU
The Positive Effects of Meditation/Mindfulness. Summarising the scientific evidence:
http://www.informationisbeautiful.net/visualizations/what-is-meditation-mindfulness-good-for/
How does Buddhism mesh with modern science? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eIRmpQbebQk
Interview with Australian Buddhist nun, Robina Courtin:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Kr7F8AV26Y
Buddhism and Sects by Ajahn Brahm:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=owq_ougaikU
Oprah Winfrey talks with Thich Nhat Hanh: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NJ9UtuWfs3U
Norman Fischer, Jack Kornfield and Sylvia Wetzel at the Garrison: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dHGPypXyDUc
Joseph Goldstein - Buddhism The essential points:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LgkBnMu_cdM
The Most Powerful Video on Spirituality and Happiness - Rare Eckhart Tolle Teaching: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KopmSpe33Eg
Loving Awareness: A Conversation with Jack Kornfield & Eckhart Tolle:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8GAgj_xjZvY
Herbie Hancock: Buddhism and Creativity: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xSFMkJQKigk
Noah Levine on Buddhism: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bjhce63L0N4
Buddhist in America- Ryan Hayashi: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ej7vJasvLwg
Nueroscience Symposium - University of Zurich - with the Dalai Lama:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ay82wmkvFtg&list=PLD653677C00E2D1D7
Four Noble Truths: Buddha's Psychlogy of Freedom :
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FJvB9xKfX1U
Buddhist Teachings: The Noble Eightfold Path :
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pPk-pxhyYeg
Andrew Cohen & Deepak Chopra in New York City https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-COAvUh6QJ4
Gather to discuss and explore Buddhist teachings, meditation, retreats and
make new friends. The intention is for this group to be a collective community and ideas or events are welcomed.
It is our intention to keep the cost of events to a minimum. i.e. this is not a group set up to generate funds. The cost of any organised events will be shared between attendees; however we will try to keep these costs to a minimum.
If any members have ideas or events they would like us to organise then please contact Nim.
The Bodhi Tree, Inspiring Wisdom, Bookshop and Cafe has kindly offered free VIP loyalty Card to all Dharma Friends. The VIP card offers discounted pricing on all purchases as well as any paid events at The Bodhi Tree. See Discussions page for further info on how to claim your card.
Our Purpose-To provide the opportunity for people to develop wisdom and compassion.
Our Vision -To create a welcoming community in order to inspire active wisdom and compassion.
Our Values - Generosity, Refraining from causing harm to oneself and others, Patience, Tolerance, Forbearance, Acceptance, Endurance, Diligence, Find joy in what is virtuous, positive or wholesome, Enlightened quality of concentration and Enlightened quality of wisdom-awareness.
Upcoming events (4+)
See all- Express Meditation: PurificationLink visible for attendees
Morning guided meditation with a purification practice, the Four Opponent Powers.
Please try to join this class no later than 11:00 AM.
# Join this class
Join the class
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## I want to bea member
For $50 a month you can attend all our events: classes, meditations, pujas, weekend intensives, Saturday workshops — everything!
Become a Member## I want to donate for this class
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## I’m still exploring
Free class access
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- Skillful Speech: Bringing Awareness to How We ConnectLink visible for attendees
How often do you walk away from conversations feeling misunderstood, frustrated, or like you said exactly the wrong thing? Most of us learned to communicate through trial and error, picking up habits that create more distance than connection. This course offers a different way; one rooted in Buddhist wisdom about the power of speech to heal or harm.
You’ll discover how the simple act of paying attention to your words and listening with genuine presence can transform your relationships. We’ll explore why some conversations leave everyone feeling energized while others drain the life out of the room, and learn practical ways to navigate everything from small talk to serious conflicts with greater skill and heart.
What You’ll Explore
This isn’t about learning scripts or communication formulas. Instead, you’ll practice speaking from awareness rather than reactivity, listening for what’s really being said beneath the words, and finding your authentic voice even in tense moments.
Each week combines traditional contemplations on Right Speech with hands-on practice in real-world scenarios. You’ll work with your own challenging relationships and communication patterns, supported by a group of fellow explorers in an encouraging environment.
You’ll Leave With- Confidence in navigating difficult conversations without losing your center
- Skills for listening so deeply that people feel truly heard and valued
- Practical tools for speaking truthfully without causing unnecessary harm
- An understanding of how your communication style affects your relationships
- A personal practice for bringing more kindness and clarity to all your interactions
Venerable Nyima, the facilitator of this course, invites you into something a bit different from traditional classes. Rather than sitting back to just receive teachings, you’re being invited to join a group exploration where we discover these Buddhist principles together. The insights you bring from your own life and relationships are just as valuable as any ancient text. We’ll learn as much from each other’s honest reflections as from traditional teachings.
When we learn together this way, we create a container where everyone’s authentic experience can inform our understanding. Your particular challenges with communication might illuminate something that helps the whole group. Someone else’s breakthrough might spark recognition in you. We welcome you into our community of lifelong learners. Your presence and authentic participation help create the very wisdom we’re all seeking to understand.# Join this class
Join the class
## I am a member
## ↓
## I want to bea member
For $50 a month you can attend all our events: classes, meditations, pujas, weekend intensives, Saturday workshops — everything!
Become a Member## I want to donate for this class
## and
## I’m still exploring
Free class access
## ↓
- Daily Guided MeditationLink visible for attendees
Please be aware that there is no Drop-in Meditation from 30 June to 7 July 2025! Thank you for understanding!
This is a hybrid event! You can attend in person at Tushita or online via live zoom (and video recordings).### To Participate Online
- Zoom Meeting Link – live Monday to Saturday @ 9:00 am (IST)
Meeting ID: 881 6246 2162
Passcode: Shamatha- YouTube Playlist – recordings
