Spirit Rock Meditation Center
Spirit Rock meditation center is a meditation retreat center that offers year round courses and sessions designed to assist people get the most out of their meditations. Founded in the belief that all people should have access to the skills needed to properly meditate, the Spirit Rock meditation center is one of the few places that will offer courses, sessions and training at minimal fees, or through a work exchange program. With a quarter of their costs paid for by donation, this center allows you to learn and experience meditation.
There are many different types of meditation that you can learn at the Spirit Rock meditation center, although the primary focus is on Dharma, the teachings of the Buddha, and the Vipassana method of meditation. There are a series of courses available, ranging from the raw beginner who wishes to learn the fundamental teachings of the Buddha, to those highly experienced in meditation. The majority of the classes operate under the rules of Dana, which is the practice of generosity. Fees for many of the classes only pay for the basic operations of Spirit Rock meditation center. Food, as well as building maintenance, are paid for by these fees. Dana is, in simplest terms, a donation system where the students give to the teachers as they see fit. As the fees do not give any portion to the teachers unless specifically mentioned, Dana is their primary form of compensation. As it is a core part of the teachings of the Buddha that all should have access to the knowledge of meditation, the system of Dana is how teachers are usually paid for their time.
The Spirit Rock meditation center is located in Marin, California. In picturesque hills, the center has a distinctive, Asian motif that goes far in emerging those coming to meditate in being absorbed by the cultures of India. Following proper tradition, shoes are not worn within the Spirit Rock meditation center Hall. While some meditation chairs and cushions are provided, the center operates as many traditional places do, and request that you bring your own if you have a cushion.
While meditation is suitable for those of all ages, the Spirit Rock meditation center usually works with teens, young adults, and families. It is expected that those who attend any of the sessions keep the atmosphere and tranquility of the Hall intact. Because of this, small children who are not interested in meditation are often suggested to not attend the courses.