^{The Wellington Buddhist Centre teaches two basic and complementary meditation techniques. These two meditation practices provide a base from which to develop ourselves into happier, healthier human beings. The first of these, the mindfulness of breathing, helps us become more concentrated. The method involves paying attention to the flow of breath coming in and going out of the body. In this way we begin to develop a greater awareness of ourselves, and consequently others, and we develop a greater sense of clarity, stillness and contentment. The second meditation we teach is called the metta bhavana, or the development of universal loving kindness. In this meditation we begin by developing kinder, more positive feelings towards ourselves. We then extend our positivity progressively outwards, until we arrive at a powerful emotion of warmth and love for all living beings. In our experience, people learn to meditate most easily in a group led by an experienced teacher and meditator. It is more difficult to learn from a book, which can not always provide appropriate support and advice. Meditation classes at the Wellington Buddhist Centre are run by experienced teachers who have been meditating for many years. Classes are run in an informal and relaxed manner. Participants are given assistance with posture, techniques for relaxing the body and opportunities to discuss their meditation practice.}

Meditation