Throughout the year we host many special events at our Kadampa Temple including visiting senior Kadampa Buddhist Teachers, social events, open days, fundraising events, and special days of celebration (such as new years eve). These events always bring a “buzz” to our Center, igniting peoples enthusiasm and joy for meditation practice, and bring many people together to learn about spiritual practice and how to lead a meaningful life.
Our special events are taught by qualified Kadampa Teachers within our Tradition of Kadampa Buddhism. The teachers are always happy to answer any questions you may have about meditation practice & Buddhism.
Some of our special events can be attended on a residential basis. KMC Florida has a variety of on-site accommodation options including single, double, and triple occupancy rooms as well as a male and female dorm. We also have ample bathroom facilities for our guests. Staying onsite in our comfortable accommodation gives people the opportunity to fully immerse themselves in the meditation retreat or course they are attending. View our accommodation.
Listed below are the upcoming special events at KMC Florida. Click on “Find Out More” for information on an event and for online booking.
Course Topics
These courses explore different Buddhist meditation topics such as mindfulness, loving kindness, karma, past and future lives, compassion, patience, wisdom and how we can practically apply them in daily life to solve our problems.
What to expect on our courses
Our courses consist of a mixture of guided meditation, practical instructions, Q & A, discussion and refreshment periods.
Our Kadampa Temple
The venue for these meditation classes is our Kadampa Meditation Temple in Sarasota. The Temple is the most beautiful and inspiring sacred place for people to learn, in a safe and peaceful environment, the practices of Buddhist meditation. Under the guidance of our Kadampa Teachers you can learn how to find greater peace and happiness from within.
New to meditation?
All our courses are open to those who have no previous experience of Meditation. The classes are presented in a down to earth, practical, and accessible way. Everyone is welcome.
Why meditate
The purpose of meditation is to cultivate positive states of mind, conducive to peace and well-being, and overcome negative habits of mind. Happiness is a state of mind, therefore the real source of happiness lies in the mind, not in external situations. When our mind is peaceful we are free from worries and mental discomfort, and we experience true happiness.
“If we want to experience true, lasting happiness, we need to learn the secret of inner peace by meditating.” – Geshe Kelsang Gyatso
About meditation
The purpose of meditation is to make our mind calm and peaceful. If our mind is peaceful, we will be free from worries, stress, and mental discomfort, and so we will experience true happiness; but if our mind is not peaceful, we will find it very difficult to be happy, even if we are living in the very best conditions.
If we train in meditation, our mind will gradually become more and more peaceful, and we will experience a purer and purer form of happiness. Eventually, we will be able to stay happy all the time, even in the most difficult circumstances.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Here are some common questions that people ask about our meditation courses. If you have any other questions please contact us and we will be happy to help you in anyway.
Here are some common questions that people ask about our courses:
Q: What courses and retreats are available?
Our courses and retreats range from beginner level to more advanced levels on subjects from mindfulness & loving kindness to compassion & wisdom.
Q: Do I need to be Buddhist to attend a course?
A: No, our courses are presented in a way that is accessible to everyone, and no religious obligation is required.
Q: Do I need to have experience of meditation or Buddhism to attend a course?
A: Mostly no. Everyone is welcome, including beginners. Some experience of Buddhism would only be recommended for deeper Buddhist topics.
Q: If I’m a complete beginner, should I attend a retreat?
A: Yes, but it would be recommended that you attend a more beginner focused course
Q: Which retreats are suitable for someone with some experience of meditation?
A: All of the retreats listed on this site are useful for those with some experience of meditation.
Q: Will I be asked to say anything, or speak in front of a group of people?
A: No. But you can ask questions if you want to.
Q: Is there any physical exercise involved, such as yoga?
A: No. The courses focus on meditation alone.
Q: Can I sit on a chair on retreat or do I have to sit cross legged?
A: Yes, you can sit on a chair! There are also cuhions for those who like to sit on the floor in the traditional cross legged position.
Q: What do I need to bring?
A: Nothing in particular. However, some people find it useful to bring a notepad and pen.
Q: How should I dress?
A: There are no special requirements, but comfortable clothing is generally best.
Q: Do I need to book in advance?
A: Yes, all retreat listed on this website will need to be booked in advance.
