Tibetan Buddhism, Shamatha & Tonglen Meditation

Vajrayana is the form of Buddhism practiced in Tibet, sharing with Mahayana the motivation to attain liberation for the benefit of all sentient beings. Vajrayana adds the goal to attain that liberation as quickly as possible and includes a rich diversity of powerful meditation techniques. We’ll be exploring Tibetan meditation practices from various traditions, alternating each week between Shamatha and Tonglen practice. The literal translation of Shamatha is calm abiding or tranquility, describing amental state characterized by a deep sense of contentment, a vivid and concentrated mind, and serenity of thought like the stillness of a lake. Shamatha is developed by placing the attention on a specific object or domain of awareness and gently training the attention to remain where it was placed. The Shamatha meditation practice will explore techniques from different traditions including Lam Rim, Mahāmudrā, Bön, and Dzogchen. Having a variety of meditation techniques helps to keep our practice fresh and work with our unique mind in any situation. We will also be practicing Tonglen Meditation. The word *tonglen* is derived from the Tibetan language: *tong* meaning “giving” and *len* meaning “taking” or “receiving.” The practice is a powerful meditation of giving and receiving, where we consciously take in the suffering of others and give them our love, compassion, and joy.