Meditation Day Retreat - Beginners Welcome

The Buddha described four qualities of the heart as the Brahma Viharas, the "heavenly abodes" or "divine dwellings":

• loving-kindness (metta)
• compassion (karuna)
• sympathetic joy (mudita)
• equanimity (upekkha)

They are not reserved for saints. They are natural capacities that we can all cultivate, and each one opens the heart a little wider.
Loving-kindness wishes others well. Compassion meets suffering with tenderness rather than turning away. Sympathetic joy delights in the happiness and success of others, even when it isn't ours. Equanimity brings a steady, spacious balance, so we can care deeply without being knocked over.
Together they offer a radical alternative to habitual reactivity, self-concern and indifference. They are a way of meeting ourselves and the world with warmth, courage and freedom.
This day retreat is an opportunity to explore and practise all four. There will be guided meditations on each of the Brahma Viharas, along with teaching and time to reflect in pairs or small groups. There will also be space for questions and shared exploration throughout the day.
The day is open to all adults, whatever your previous experience, including complete beginners. Please bring some food to share for a vegetarian/vegan lunch. Teas and coffee are provided.
There is no charge, and donations on the day are welcome.
Please book by emailing [hertsbuddhistmeditation@gmail.com](mailto:hertsbuddhistmeditation@gmail.com). The booking deadline is 12pm on Saturday 10th October.