People tend to think of libraries as peaceful and calming places. While we’re working to correct that stereotype by offering lots of exciting programs and inviting kids, teens, and adults to interact with each other and library staff in normal speaking voices, sometimes it does tend to get a little quiet around here. And sometimes, like say, the third Saturday of each month from 10:30 a.m. to noon, we actually encourage quiet reflection in free meditation classes!

Are you interested to nurture well-being in yourself and others? Do you seek to uncover your true authentic nature? Would you like to let go of old beliefs, patterns, thoughts, and emotional barriers? If you said yes to the previous questions, then you might want to try out Guided Meditation!

Taught by Do’an Prajna, a fully ordained Zen Buddhist Monk, these classes have been offered at the library for a little over a year and have received rave reviews from those that have attended. Do’an will instruct you on techniques, lead a short sitting meditation, host a brief Q&A and discussion, and end with silent reflection. Meditation doesn’t end at the door, and these courses are intended to help you live a more peaceful and mindful life. 

Do’an says it best on his website, onepointmind.com, “Mindfulness is a non-faith-based practice of maintaining moment-to-moment awareness of our thoughts, emotions, and sensations. It is the acceptance of what is happening without judgement and without believing that what we are experiencing in any given moment is right or wrong… (Meditation) improves physical and mental health, enhances overall well-being, and promotes better relationships and stronger communities.”

This course is open to all levels of experience and faith traditions. Sign ups are not required, just show up with an open mind. After reading all this, who wouldn’t want to try out meditation? And if you know what you’re doing, then stop in on October 19 at 10:30 a.m. and see if maybe you can learn something new or meet some new people who share your interests!

Thanks for reading!