Participants from diverse countries Gather at DDM Sydney Chapter for English Beginner Meditation Class

From May 24 to 25, Dharma Drum Mountain (DDM) Sydney Chapter held an "English Beginner's Intensive Meditation Class," guided personally by Venerable Yan Qian (演千法師) and Venerable Yan You (演宥法師). Supported by a dedicated team of meditation care volunteers, the class gradually led participants through the principles of relaxation, mindfulness, and calm abiding, helping them build a proper understanding of meditation concepts and methods.

The course covered topics such as sitting posture and breath regulation, as well as the Eight-Form Moving Meditation. Through learning and hands-on practice, participants were able to quickly grasp the essence of meditation—"where the body is, the mind is."

The program also included a session of "Walking Meditation" at Naremburn Park close to the center, allowing participants to immerse themselves in nature. During the walking meditation while holding a bowl of water, students experienced a transformation—from tension to relaxation, from attachment to letting go—thereby deepening their understanding that meditation is about observing the mind and being present in the moment.

One participant from India indicated that "I used to think meditation was just about sitting quietly. I never expected that the application of meditation could be so diverse and integrated into everyday life." Another participant mentioned that through "Eating Meditation," they learned to savor each bite with mindfulness, rekindling awareness and gratitude for life, and rediscovering its beauty.

Locilla from Hong Kong and Lim from Singapore said the class taught them not only proper meditation techniques and attitudes, but also a deeper realization that daily life itself is practice, and Chan is everywhere. Reiko from Japan commented that the course helped her calm her mind and improve her sleep, adding, "the support from the meditation care team made me feel at ease and comfortable." Sandra and Philps, who served as care volunteers for the first time, shared their experiences of personal growth and transformation. They described how being supported gradually turned into learning how to support others—a warm continuation and a living transmission of the Dharma.


At the end of the class, Venerable Yan You encouraged participants to apply what they had learned to daily life: "Meditation is not an escape from life—it is living with greater clarity and ease. Every moment of awareness is a moment of practice."

DDM Sydney Chapter encourages everyone to continue participating in group practice. For more information on meditation activities and courses, please visit the official website: https://ausyd.ddm.org.tw/
 
Original text in Chinese and photos by DDM Sydney Chapter
Translation: Patricia Yang 
Editing: Keith Brown