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FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

You asked and we answered! We offer Buddhist meditation classes to the Harlem community. Everyone of all ages, faiths, genders, colors, and cultures are always welcome to our classes!

I feel like I can't meditate, can I still come to a class?

I feel like I can't meditate, can I still come to a class?

Yes. We start wherever we are at the moment. Buddhist Meditation is a skill that we learn gently and slowly.

Question: What happens in a class? Each class consists of short guided meditations, teaching, followed by Q&A. We do not meditate for the entire class.

What happens during a class?

Each class consists of short guided meditations, teaching, followed by Q&A. We do not meditate for the entire class.

Question: Do I have to become a Buddhist to attend classes? No:) Anyone can attend the classes. People of all ages, faiths, colors, sizes, cultures, all people, are always welcome to our classes.

Do I have to become a Buddhist to attend classes?

No:) Anyone can attend the classes. People of all ages, faiths, colors, sizes, cultures, all people, are always welcome to our classes.

Question: How should I dress for class? No special clothing is required. Wear whatever is comfortable for you.

How should I dress for class?

No special clothing is required. Wear whatever is comfortable for you.

Question: Do we need to attend all classes or commit to a series? No. You can attend one or as many classes as you are able to. You can come and go. No commitment is necessary:-)

Do we need to attend all classes or commit to a series?

No. You can attend one or as many classes as you are able to. You can come and go. No commitment is necessary:-)

Where do the class fees go? Meditation in Harlem is a non-profit, all-volunteer organization. All teachers and staff are volunteers and do not profit from class fees.

Where do the class fees go?

Meditation in Harlem is a non-profit, all-volunteer organization. All teachers and staff are volunteers and do not profit from class fees.

Question: If I am of another religious faith, can I attend classes?  Yes. Anyone can attend classes. You can continue to follow your faith while also benefiting from Buddhist meditation. You do not need to become a Buddhist.

If I am of another religious faith, can I attend classes?

Yes. Anyone can attend classes. You can continue to follow your faith while also benefiting from Buddhist meditation. You do not need to become a Buddhist.

Question: Do I need to sit on a cushion in order to meditate in class? No, you do not have to sit on a cushion to meditate. We provide chairs and cushions for meditation. You just need to sit comfortably. And leave your cat at home:-)

Do I need to sit on a cushion in order to meditate in class?

No, you do not have to sit on a cushion to meditate. We provide chairs and cushions for meditation. You just need to sit comfortably.

Question: Do I have to be a Buddhist to benefit from Meditation? No. Anyone can learn basic meditation and experience the benefits. Buddhists respect all people and are happy to help anyone regardless of whether they subscribe to another faith or to none.

Do I have to be a Buddhist to benefit from Meditation?

No. Anyone can learn basic meditation and experience the benefits. Buddhists respect all people and are happy to help anyone regardless of whether they subscribe to another faith or to none.

Still have questions? We are happy to answer them! You can email us at: harlem@meditationinnewyork.org

Still have questions?

We are happy to answer them! You can email us at: harlem@meditationinnewyork.org

New to Meditation

I feel like I can't meditate, can I still come to a class?

Yes! We start wherever we are at the moment. Buddhist Meditation is a skill that we learn gently and slowly.

About Our Classes

What happens during a class?

Each class consists of short guided meditations, teaching, followed by Q&A.

Do I have to become a Buddhist to attend classes?

No:) Anyone can attend the classes. People of all ages, faiths, colors, sizes, cultures, all people, are always welcome to our classes.

How should I dress for class?

No special clothing is required. Wear whatever is comfortable for you.

Do we need to attend all classes or commit to a series?

No. You can attend one or as many classes as you are able to. You can come and go. No commitment is necessary:-)

Do I need to sit on a cushion in order to meditate in class?

No, you do not have to sit on a cushion to meditate.

We provide chairs and cushions for meditation. You just need to sit comfortably.

Practical Information

Where do the class fees go?

Meditation in Harlem is a non-profit, all-volunteer organization. All teachers and staff are volunteers and do not profit from class fees. ALL proceeds from class fees go directly toward space rental, operations, overhead costs, and improvements. 

If I am of another religious faith, can I attend classes?

Yes. Anyone can attend classes. You can continue to follow your faith while also benefiting from Buddhist meditation. You do not need to become a Buddhist.

Do I have to be a Buddhist to benefit from Meditation?

No. Anyone can learn basic meditation and experience the benefits. Buddhists respect all people and are happy to help anyone regardless of whether they subscribe to another faith or to none.

Still have questions?

We are happy to answer them! You can email us at: harlem@meditationinnewyork.org

Still Have Questions?

We're happy to help! Feel free to reach out to us.