Frequently Asked Questions

If you are interested in learning more about the Adelaide Shambhala Meditation Group, the questions and answers below may be helpful.

What is Shambhala?

Shambhala is a global community of meditation and retreat centres founded by Chögyam Trungpa Rinpoche and currently led by his son and spiritual heir, Sakyong Mipham Rinpoche. There are more than 200 Shambhala centres and groups around the world, as well as thousands of individual members.

Shambhala centres offer courses in meditation and other contemplative arts and disciplines, and also host community gatherings, celebrations and family events.

What are the Shambhala teachings?

Shambhala is rooted in the contemplative teachings of Buddhism. In the mid-1970s Chögyam Trungpa Rinpoche began to introduce teachings on Shambhala vision, based on his encounter with the Western world and on the specific wisdom imparted from the Buddha to King Dawa Sangpo, the first sovereign of the legendary kingdom of Shambhala.

This tradition teaches how to live in the secular world with courage and compassion. Shambhala is a fresh expression of how human beings can bring the dignity and respect of the spiritual journey into our everyday life.

I have my own spiritual tradition. Can I learn meditation without becoming a Buddhist?

Yes. Meditation in Shambhala is compatible with every spiritual tradition and can benefit anyone.

In Shambhala, the vision of a decent and peaceful society includes people of all faiths and walks of life. Although some of our programs and events are open only to those who have fulfilled certain prerequisites, all are welcome at our centre and at public programs.

Can I visit the Adelaide Shambhala Meditation Group to see what it offers?

Yes, you are more than welcome to visit. For a good introduction to our centre and meditation, you are invited to attend our Monday Night Open House, or part of our all-day program on the third Saturday of each month to receive meditation instruction. There is no charge and no need to register.

All are welcome.

Do I have to be a member to attend programs or meditation sessions?

No. Everyone is welcome to attend public meditation sessions, classes, weekend programs, and celebrations at the Adelaide Shambhala Meditation Group.

Note that for some activities and programs, attendance is limited based on certain prerequisites and one’s current meditation practice. This information is included in the program descriptions in the Calendar section of our website.

If you would like to learn more about becoming a member of the Adelaide Shambhala Meditation Group, please visit the Membership page.

Is the centre accessible to those with mobility limitations?

Yes. The Adelaide Shambhala Meditation Group meet at the Quakers Meeting House in North Adelaide which has wheelchair access to the meditation room and toilets. You may park close to the Meeting House in the carpark behind the building. If you require assistance, please contact us before coming at [email protected].

What can I expect at the weekly Open House?

The weekly Open House offers a friendly introduction to meditation practice, the Shambhala teachings and our community. It offers meditation instruction, a short talk and open discussion led by an experienced practitioner of the Shambhala community. Open House is free and open to everyone. You can attend Open House as many times as you wish.

How can I learn about meditation?

There are several opportunities each week to receive meditation instruction at the Adelaide Shambhala Meditation Group. Meditation instruction is given at:

  • Monday Night Open House: every Monday night, 7:00 – 9:00 pm
  • Third Saturday of the month: starting at 9.30 am

You may learn meditation by attending any of these programs, which are free and open to the public. Meditation instruction is also given at most of our weekend introductory programs held throughout the year.

What is a good way to develop a regular meditation practice?

Attending classes and weekend programs provides opportunity to learn about the path of meditation and its application to daily life. After receiving meditation instruction, it is helpful to have a daily meditation practice, morning or evening, for a set period of time. You can begin with short meditation sessions and increase your practice gradually over time.

Is there a cost for programs?

Although there is no cost to receive meditation instruction, or to simply come and meditate, for most weekend programs there is a cost to attend. However, if cost is an issue, please refer to our Generosity Policy (coming soon).

Which programs or classes are best for beginners?

Our ongoing programs (offered weekly and monthly):

  • Full day of meditation: Third Saturday of every month, 9:30am – 4:00pm
  • Open House: Every Monday, 7:00pm – 9:00pm

Way of Shambhala programs (offered when enough students are interested):

  • Meditation in Everyday Life (five-week evening classes)
  • Shambhala Training Level I: The Art of Being Human (a weekend program)
  • Who Am I? The Basic Goodness of Being Human (six-week evening classes)
  • How Can I Help? The Basic Goodness of Society (six-week evening classes)
  • What is Real? The Basic Goodness of Reality (six-week evening classes)

In addition there are a variety of classes available for all levels of experience, including people new to meditation.

For more information, please refer to The way of Shambhala section.

Are there programs or activities for families, children, and youth?

We welcome families as a vital part of our community. Our aspiration is to have a local Shambhala community in which families gather for practice and feel included and supported.

Additional questions

If you have additional questions, or you would like further information, please visit us in person or contact us: [email protected].

We look forward to talking with you.