five forces for training the mind

5 week series | 20 & 27 October, 3, 10 & 17 November | 7–8.30pm

We all know what it’s like to want to change — a habit, a reaction, a pattern that keeps repeating. Geshe Kelsang Gyatso’s Eight Steps to Happiness teaches five forces that give us the power to actually make change happen.

These five practical tools give us real power to start a regular practice of meditation and train our mind in a steady and engaged way right in the middle of daily life and experiences.

In this five-week series, our resident teacher Gen Tubchen, will introduce the Five Forces, a set of traditional instructions for training the mind that are relevant and practical for modern day meditators.

Each week we’ll unpack one as a practical method for training the mind that genuinely works over time, rather than relying on willpower alone. In this way our good intentions actually stick rather than fading after a few days.

We will learn how to strengthen our meditation practice, enhance our intentions, build positive habits, overcome our obstacles and go deeper spiritually.

Through teaching, guided meditations, and discussion, we’ll explore how these forces can support us in our meditation practice and our daily lives. No previous experience is necessary. Drop in for a single class or for maximum benefit join us the whole series.

Week 1: Finding Your Motivation

Week 2: Making meditation a habit

Week 3: Planting the Seeds of Virtue

Week 4: Overcoming obstacles

Week 5: Keeping the Aspiration Alive

Everyone is warmly welcome.

Each class includes 2 guided meditations, a practical teaching, and time for discussion. Meditation is done seated in chairs with the option to sit on a mat and cushion if you prefer.   

This course is perfect for anyone wishing to deepen their meditation practice. It is possible to drop-in to any class if you cannot attend the whole course.

After the class there is tea and biscuits in the cafe provided free of charge for those who would like to stay on and discuss the class or their meditation practice.

Venue: KMC Edinburgh, 172 Leith Walk, EH6 5E

Term Topics and Dates:

Understanding Karma – 3 weeks 22, 29 Sep & Oct 6

Five Forces for Training the Mind – 5 weeks Oct 20, 27, Nov 3, 10, 17 

Love without limits – 4 weeks 24 Nov & Dec 1, 8 & 15

14 day meditation challenge – 3 weeks Jan 12, 19 & 26

Fees

£10 per class | 25% discount for booking a whole course.

Members free in person or online (no need to book).

Concessions available for those unable to afford the classes.