Can I just turn up for the Zoom meeting or do I need to book?

We ask that you contact us via our contact form to let us know you would like to attend and how much previous experience you have.  This allows us to find a mutually convenient date for you to start when an appropriate level of instruction can be given.  It also ensures we will keep an eye out for you.

Do I need to have previous experience of mindfulness or meditation?
No.   At some of our evenings, we give full instruction to the practice for people who are new to both mindfulness and meditation.  We try to tailor this to the experience level of new attendees so it’s helpful to let us know in advance what experience you have.

What should I wear?
Wear loose, comfortable, clothing.  We aim to be comfortable not fashionable!  If the weather is cold you may find a blanket or shawl will be helpful to keep you warm.

What do I need to bring with me?

We generally meditate sitting on chairs but if you would prefer to mediate sitting on cushions or a meditation bench you would need to bring that with.   Reading glasses are helpful.   Most importantly, try to come without too many preconceptions!

When should I arrive?
If you are coming for the first time, you are encouraged to pre-arrange an orientation with the person leading the practice that evening.  The orientation is 10 minutes so please plan on arriving at 7:20pm if possible.  If you don’t need an orientation, please try to arrive by 7:25pm so that you can settle down and we can start on time at 7:30pm

What is the contents of a typical evening’s practice?

You will find full details of our evenings here.

We start at 7:30pm and aim to finish by 9:30pm.

Are their particular practices or customs I will be expected to know about?

No.  If you have no previous experience of mindfulness and meditation, we suggest you read this page of our website.

Will all my troubles and challenges go away after a single evening’s practice?

Possibly, but probably not!  Think of mindfulness and meditation as like learning to swim or learning another language.  It takes time and effort to learn the techniques and realise all the benefits.

I would like to come to the group but I don’t know whether it is the right forum for me and whether I want to participate on a regular basis.  Is that OK?

That’s absolutely fine.  You are making no financial or other ongoing commitment to the group and we will not add you to our mailing list without your permission.   Please bring your curiosity and your questions with you when you come.  Our objective is to be friendly and welcoming.

How do I join the group if I decide to?

There is no initiation ceremony and no joining fee.  What happens is that you start coming back on a more regular basis.  Don’t worry – you are not expected to come every week.   It’s helpful to your practice to come regularly but we recognise you may well have a life and a career outside of the group and can’t commit to coming every week.

Does it cost anything to attend the group meetings?
There is no set fee for attending our meetings.  However, you are encouraged to donate the amount you feel appropriate if you are so moved.  Dana, or generosity, is an important aspect of the spiritual path, benefitting the giver as well as the recipient.  We are run on a not-for-profit basis and our only expenses are primarily room hire.   As a guide, you may wish to donate £3 to £5 if you are financially able to do so.  We do not want anyone to be precluded from attending our meetings on grounds of cost.