The Mechanics of Bliss: How Meditation Techniques Cultivate Insight

This in-person workshop will explore ancient meditation practices, providing both theoretical understanding and practical experience of these techniques. 

In this experiential workshop at The College of Psychic Studies, we will study the teachings from the Yoga Sutras and Buddhist Samatha (concentration meditation), and put them into practice to explore how they work with the mind. The workshop will be divided into two parts, starting with a talk and concluding with practice. 

Part 1: The theory

First, we will unpack the theory of the mechanics of the mind as taught in ancient texts such as the Yoga Sutras and Visuddhimagga. Through these ancient texts, we will examine how we can achieve mental clarity and insight through focused practice, as well as how meditation can disentangle the mind from psychological suffering and attachments.

Part 2: The practice

The latter half of the workshop will be experiential. We will follow a graduated sequence of meditation instructions, progressing toward Samadhi (deep meditative absorption) based on the Yoga Sutras. The practice will begin with breathing exercises and sensory withdrawal (Pratyahara), which help calm the mind and focus attention. This will be followed by concentration techniques designed to cultivate Samatha and guide us toward a deeper meditative state.

Book now to explore and experience the mental processes behind meditation, witnessing how these can cultivate insight and inner peace.

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Who is this workshop for?

This workshop will offer a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical meditation guidance, ideal for both beginners and experienced meditators looking to deepen their understanding of these ancient traditions.

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Previous participants say:

"Ann Mathie was very engaging, and the guided meditations enormously helpful and insightful."

"Ann Mathie was amazing! The class far exceeded my expectations. I have come away with knowledge that I can apply to my everyday life and the spiritual journey I am on. I now have a new interest and keen to explore further."

"Another excellent and insightful workshop from Ann Mathie. She always ends them with a practical meditation which I find seriously helpful. Highly recommend her."

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