New to Meditation
One Breath at a Time
BEGINNERS PROGRAMS
The teachings of the Buddha have an experiential emphasis. It is not a question of believing that practicing meditation is beneficial, but of actually trying it out and experiencing the results for oneself.
NYI offers meditation classes in NYC for those new to meditation as well as experienced meditators. We have weekly orientations and regularly scheduled courses and workshops that provide fundamental instruction in Insight Meditation. For beginners, emphasis is placed on the practices of sitting and walking meditation and developing mindfulness in daily life.
Upcoming Beginners’ Courses:
All current NYIMC programs appropriate or geared towards beginners.
Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) courses
Suggested Activities:
Attend an In-Person Community Meditation Gathering every Wednesday from 6:30pm-8:30pm. See below for registration.
Sign up for NYI’s email updates
Attend ongoing sitting groups (see list here)
Begin a home meditation practice
Recommended Readings:
A Path with Heart by Jack Kornfield
Mindfulness: A Practical Guide to Awakening by Joseph Goldstein
Real Happiness: The Power of Meditation by Sharon Salzberg
Mindfulness in Plain English by Henepola Gunaratana
Upcoming Programs for Beginners
In-Person and Online: Thanksgiving Eve Community-led Gathering
Wednesday, November 27th, 2024 from 6:30pm - 8:30pm ET
Sticking around NYC this Thanksgiving? Come join the community at New York Insight for an evening of gentle meditation, reflection, and the chance to practice Noble Silence in a hectic season. There will be a 40-minute peer-led meditation session, followed by walking meditation.
In-Person and Online: Community Meditation Gathering
with Elaine Retholtz
Wednesday, December 4th, 2024 from 6:30pm - 8:30pm ETNew York Insight now offers this series of in-person community gatherings consisting of guided meditation, a talk by one of our teachers, followed by group discussion, and opportunities to socialize and connect with like-minded practitioners. All are welcome. Find out more
In-Person and Online: Community Meditation Gathering
with Leslie Booker
Wednesday, December 11th, 2024 from 6:30pm - 8:30pm ETNew York Insight now offers this series of in-person community gatherings consisting of guided meditation, a talk by one of our teachers, followed by group discussion, and opportunities to socialize and connect with like-minded practitioners. All are welcome. Find out more
In-Person and Online: Community Meditation Gathering
with Brian Simmons
Wednesday, December 18th, 2024 from 6:30pm - 8:30pm ETNew York Insight now offers this series of in-person community gatherings consisting of guided meditation, a talk by one of our teachers, followed by group discussion, and opportunities to socialize and connect with like-minded practitioners. All are welcome. Find out more
In-Person and Online: Insight 101 – Intro to Vipassana Meditation
with Lani Miller
Tuesdays, January 7th - February 11th from 6:30pm - 8:30pm ETIf you’ve been wanting to learn how to meditate or refresh and renew the meditation practice you already have, we invite you to join this six-week meditation course to explore the practice of Insight (Vipassana) meditation in a warm, supportive environment. We will emphasize experiential practice, including instructions for sitting and walking meditation, and explore how we can bring this practice of presence into our everyday lives. Find out more
In-Person: Free Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) Orientation
with Elaine Retholtz
Wednesday, January 15th, 2025 from 9:30am - 12:00pmIn this free MBSR session, we will explore mindfulness practices that are accessible to individuals of any background and experience level. It will also offer insight into reclaiming control over one's well-being, cultivating resilience, and embracing a life of mindful presence. Find out more
In-Person: Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) Course
with Elaine Retholtz
In-Person Course: Wednesdays, January 22nd - March 12th, 2025 | 9:30am - 12:00pmIn-Person Daylong:Saturday, February 22nd, 2025 | 9:30am - 5:00pm
MBSR has helped thousands of people decrease the effects of stress in their lives, allowing them to reduce the symptoms of both physical and psychological problems, and to live their lives with more ease, vitality, and enjoyment. Find out more