Meditation for Beginners

Knowing how to deal with thoughts and emotions can lead to a powerful and peaceful place within yourself. In this 90 minute class, you can learn the basics of Mindfulness Meditation and Loving Kindness Meditation - enough to get you started in your own personal meditation practice. Whether to reduce your stress or calm your wild thoughts, the first step is to be present, and meet your mind. This program is free and open to the public, designed for adults and teens 16+, no registration required. Bottled water will be provided, no equipment is required, comfortable clothing recommended.

This series will be led by Margie Rodgers and Seamus Kennedy, Practice Leaders from River's Edge Meditation in Elmira, NY. Margie has practiced a variety of meditations for decades, but finds a home in Tibetan Buddhism. She has been a student of Pema Chödrön for 19 years and serves as Vice President of Pema Chödrön Foundation. Margie also studies with Tergar International with Yongey Mingyur Rinpoche. She recently completed the Anywhere, Anytime Meditation Teacher Training with Tergar International.  She is a Certified End of Life Doula and former Interfaith Spiritual Care Counselor. Introducing people to beginning meditation techniques is near and dear to her heart.

Seamus has practiced meditation and studied the great wisdom traditions for over 30 years. As a student of Contemplative Christianity, Advaita Vedanta and Tibetan Buddhism, Seamus has an unusually integral perspective on spiritual practice and development. He has practiced Chinese medicine for 15 years, and enjoys helping others to get "unstuck".