Lost in Thoughts and Feelings?

Mindfulness and the changing states of mind

We all know what it’s like to get pulled into a mood, a worry, or a stream of thinking that suddenly feels completely convincing.

• A difficult conversation replays in the mind.
• Anxiety takes over the body.
• A passing feeling becomes “who I am.”

But what if our thoughts and feelings are not as solid or personal as they seem?

In the Buddhist teachings on mindfulness, we’re invited to observe our changing states of mind with greater clarity and less identification. Rather than becoming trapped inside thoughts, moods, and reactions, we begin to recognize them as experiences arising and passing within awareness.

The Buddha gave us a profound reflection we can use as a mantra when we're caught in our thoughts and feelings, to bring us back into spaciousness :

"This is not mine. This is not my self. This is not what I am."

In this evening session, we’ll explore:

• How thoughts and emotional states take hold
• Why we become identified with certain moods and stories
• How mindfulness helps us observe mental states without being consumed by them
• The possibility of relating to experience with greater space, steadiness, and freedom

The evening includes guided meditation, practical teaching, and space for reflection and discussion.
No prior meditation experience is necessary. This gathering is open to both beginners and experienced practitioners.

What to Expect

• Guided mindfulness meditation
• Exploration of changing states of mind
• Reflection on thoughts, moods, and identity
• A grounded and supportive atmosphere for inquiry

Chairs and cushions will be available.

Facilitator
This session will be led by Andy Rogers, who integrates BG5 (Human Design for Career & Business), meditation, and Buddhist wisdom into practical, accessible frameworks for personal and professional transformation. Andy is a co-founder and facilitator at Meditation Groundwork, which has been offering live online meditation sessions since 2020.

Andy brings a warm, grounded approach to contemplative practice, helping people reconnect with clarity, embodiment, and emotional alignment. You can read his writings on meditation and buddhist practice on Substack and in the blogs he has authored for Clear Sky Meditation Center.

Dāna - Pay from the Heart
Everyone is welcome to participate regardless of financial circumstances. Please join us and offer whatever your situation allows. There will be a bowl at the door.
Learn more about dāna (the Pali word for generosity) here.