The center serves to enlighten both the curious beginner and accomplished practicioner about Buddhist philosophy by presenting historical lessons as contemporary teachings in the New Kadampa tradition.
The nonprofit venue offers weekly classes on Buddhism and meditation, special prayer chanting sessions and scheduled open hours for walk-in visitors and curiosity-seekers.
Leaders also host a number of special events throughout the year, including special readings, talks, retreats and social outings.
Aikido of Ramapo Valley is a noncompetitive martial arts training facility in Wyckoff that has been in business for 12 years. Aikido is open to men, women and children of all ages. Founded on the principle of harmony and nonresistance, Aikido doesn't rely on size or strength, but rather it uses the energy of the attacker for self-defense. The main trainer at the facility, Eran Vardi Sensei, has been practicing the art of Aikido since 1989.
IBPS Chicago is a nonprofit Buddhist organization with a chapter in Naperville. The chapter, led by instructor Venerable Miaotsan, offers mediation classes, Dharma instruction, guidance and volunteer opportunities. Classes can help with overall health, concentration, calmness, relaxation and stress reduction. It also offers lectures and seminars as well as education programs.
The Boston Shambhala Meditation Center combines Buddhist and Shambhala teachings to offer a wide range of classes and events. It emphasizes the practice of meditation but also explores other methods of spirituality. It offers yoga and tantra workshops, and also has frequent lectures. The center is one of 180 located around the world.
Clear Water Zen Center is a Zen Buddhist sangha founded by Ken Rosen and headed by zen priest Sensei Lawson Sachter. The center adheres to the teachings of Roshi Philip Kapleau, zen priest and author of the Three Pillars of Zen. It offers Sunday morning meditation sessions at the center, open meditation Monday evenings and beginner's meditation Wednesday evenings. It also hosts an all-day meditation retreat Saturdays. Please visit the website for more details.
Pema Osel Ling is a Tibetan retreat center and catering facility located deep in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Situated on more than one hundred acres, it can host retreats, parties, weddings and other events.
The center features indoor and outdoor meeting areas, a pool area, guest accommodations and a commercial kitchen with a chef that offers catering services; he aims to use ingredients from local, organic farmers in his food preparation services. The facility strives to offer reasonable rates, with a supportive, friendly staff. There are several statues and meditation areas around the facility that guests can use at any time. For further information about its services, call the number provided.
Palo Alto Buddhist Temple holds Sunday services as well as many events held throughout the year. Their dharma teachings are rooted in Shin Buddhism, which means "to live in the midst of an ordinary life, meaningfully and gratefully, transformed and empowered by the heart of Buddha's boundless compassion and wisdom." Affiliated organizations include a choir, a Buddhist Women's Association, Taiko drumming and the Dharma School for children, which teaches the Jodo Shinshu teachings to students from preschool to high school.
Berkeley Buddhist Temple has services weekly on Sundays at 9:30am and activities throughout the month. There are social and teaching groups for children, teenagers, and adults including crafts and yoga. To sign up for their newsletter or to learn more about Buddhism, give them a call.