INTRODUCTION TO BUDDHISM

Tushita aims to provide a friendly and conducive environment for people of all nationalities to contact, learn and put into practice the teachings of the Buddha. With this in mind we organize regular introductory courses on Buddhist philosophy and meditation.

Established in 1973, Tushita has gained an international reputation for its Introduction to Buddhism courses, which are equally appropriate for beginners as well as those with some background knowledge. These courses are usually residential and 10 days long.

During the first six days of the course, experienced Western and Tibetan teachers explain Tibetan Buddhist philosophy and meditation from a modern perspective. Topics include:

• the mind and emotions
• karma
• rebirth
• love and compassion
• the nature of reality

The daily schedule combines teachings with various styles of meditation and discussion groups.  The course ends with a two-day intensive meditation retreat to give you the chance to familiarize yourself with and gain insight into the topics that were covered in the teachings. Most importantly, you will learn how to apply these Buddhist techniques to increase peace, happiness, and compassion in your daily life.

To create an atmosphere conducive for reflection and meditation, participants are required to keep silence for the duration of the course except during discussion groups or question and answer periods.

Since many of the ideas presented may be new or different from one's own beliefs, we also ask people to keep an open mind and be prepared to analyse and contemplate not only the teachings, but also one's own views.

• 2008 Introduction to Buddhism Course Dates
  
• Approximate Schedule for 10-Day Residential Introduction to Buddhism Courses
  
• Course Registration
  
• Course Discipline
  
• Basic Discipline for Guests at Tushita
  
• Practical Matters for Guests at Tushita
• What to Bring
• Reading List
• Introductory Course FAQ
• Accommodation FAQ

May to November 2008 Introduction to Buddhism Course Dates