Mindfulness in the Buddhist Tradition: A short course on the four modes of mindfulness called Satipatthana

A practical and direct path.
Presented by Shaila Catherine and Richard Shankman

A series of new classes on meditation and Buddhism will be offered by Insight Meditation South Bay starting January 19, 2017.

The classroom structure offers many advantages for continuity and depth in both the style of instruction and potential for learning. The educational and experiential format of this dhamma classroom will …

• Support the establishment of consistent mindfulness meditation practice
• Enable the development of in-depth sequentially structured teachings
• Build relationships with experienced teachers and dedicated participants through exploring how the teachings of the Buddha and practice of mindfulness impacts our lives
• Enable the inclusion of resources, exercises, and creative materials to enhance study and practice
• Create practice and study groups focused on the development of skills and deepen of understanding.

The first series of classes that IMSB will be offering is on the theme of Mindfulness in the Buddhist Tradition: A Short Course on The Four Modes of Mindfulness Called the Four Satipatthanas. It will be led by Shaila Catherine and Richard Shankman, and will include:

• January 19 – Mindfulness of Body
• January 26 – Mindfulness of Feeling
• February 2 – Mindfulness of Mind
• February 9 – Mindfulness of Phenomena

Many practitioners consider the Satipatthana Sutta to be among the most important and practical teachings of the Early Discourses of the Buddha. It offers pragmatic instructions for establishing mindfulness with attention to four areas: body, feelings, mind, and various dhamma objects (physical and mental processes). These four satipatthanas, called establishments or foundations of mindfulness, are the core of insight meditation teachings. They frame the practice of mindfulness within the liberating aim of the path, thereby providing the means for our awakening.

COURSE DESIGN:
The curriculum includes practical meditation instructions, teachings on the four satipatthanas, supplementary readings or lectures, and discussion about the role and function of mindfulness in the Buddha’s teachings. This course offers an overview of how the satipatthana structure functions within the context of Buddhist practice.

It is appropriate for both new and experienced practitioners—those who want to learn about mindfulness, seasoned practitioners, and mindfulness instructors. Guided meditations and practical instructions will support newcomers, however, beginners will benefit by also attending one of our Introductory Mindfulness Courses for a skill-oriented training. Emphasis in the satipatthana course will be on the context and aims of mindfulness teachings, which will provide an excellent foundation for someone embarking on a mindfulness training, and will deepen understanding for adept practitioners.

REGISTRATION:
Registration is required for this course. Registration fees are non-refundable. To register select an option under the Tickets heading in the right-hand column of this page.

The sliding scale fee range is from $370 to $70 and will be shared between IMSB and the teacher(s). The lower end of the sliding scale is intended for those with limited means. The basic rate of $70 is estimated to cover the most basic costs such as rent and insurance for the specific class period. It does not factor in compensation for teachers or ongoing administrative expenses for IMSB. The scholarship rate of $35 offers an even lower rate for those with very limited financial means.

By choosing to give at the mid to high range of the sliding scale your generosity supports those with limited income to attend our programs, and it supports IMSB and the teachers, enabling the dhamma to thrive in the South Bay Area. We encourage you to choose the highest level that is appropriate for your economic situation. If you need additional scholarship assistance and can volunteer to help, please inquire with the registrar about service scholarships by contacting ThursdayClass.

TAX DEDUCTIBILITY: The basic registration fee is not tax deductible and non-refundable. Donations above the base rate will be considered voluntary tax deductible contributions. Each January the IMSB treasurer sends donors letters that acknowledge the accumulated deductible donations from the previous year. This annual letter will acknowledge the amount given that is above the basic rate and serve as documentation for tax deduction purposes.

SUBSEQUENT PROGRAMING:
The Thursday night dhamma classroom will include an array of topics that will support the development of meditative skills and liberating insight. Please see our 2017 Calendar of Events for details. Courses will be led by experienced teachers and local experts in meditation, mindfulness and Buddhism. Most classes will be appropriate for both new students and seasoned practitioners; any restrictions or pre-requisites will be noted in the course descriptions.

While this change in programming from a drop-in style sitting group to a Dhamma classroom is an experiment for IMSB, it is our hope that it will enable in-depth systematic sequential teachings, while also supporting a cohort of insight meditation practitioners in the San Jose – Saratoga area, and providing the necessary income to cover the expenses and compensate our teachers.

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