Finding peace in the frantic City of London
By Amelia Banks
London is one of the biggest and busiest cities in the world. Constant battles with public transport, demanding work schedules, outrageous rent prices, poor weather, that person that doesn’t stand on the right side of the escalator…no wonder Londoners have a reputation for being notoriously grumpy and perpetually stressed! In fact, according to David Cameron’s ‘happiness index’, Londoners are the most stressed and least satisfied people in England, good work team.
It’s time the people of London learnt how to chill out, take a deep breath and reconnect with themselves. Essentially, they need to become more mindful. But what is mindfulness, and how can this help with stress levels? The term ‘mindfulness’ has its roots in Buddhism. It is centred on the meditative state of being aware of the present moment and conscious of your body. It is a delicate balance between intense concentration and full relaxation. ‘Mindfulness’ can be practiced anywhere and, if practiced properly, can reduce stressful situations. Hmm, maybe that’s what the people standing up on the tube with their eyes closed are doing?
An evening of meditation and mindfulness
Meditation and guided imagery is becoming an increasingly popular way of achieving this sense of mindfulness and reducing anxiety levels. What better way to do this than to learn from a Tibetan Buddhist Lama? Drogon Gangri Karma Rinpoche, recognised by H.H. Dalai Lama and H.H. Sakya Trizin, is opening a new Tibetan Buddhist school here in London. To celebrate, a free event is being held to give the busy people of London the chance to unwind, learn about Tibetan Buddhism and take part in a free meditation session led by Rinpoche himself. No prior knowledge is required and no awkward spine lotus positions involved! Drinks and light Tibetan refreshments provided.
Drogon Gangri Karam Rinpoche in London
About Drogon Gangri Karma Rinpoche
Born in 1964 in Markham in East Tibet, Rinpoche is the current lineage holder of the Martsang Kagyu tradition. He has taught in many countries including India, Singapore, Malaysia, Nepal, Bhutan, Taiwan and the United Kingdom. For more information on Rinpoche and his teachings you can visit his website Martsang Kagyu.
What: Introduction to Meditation and Mindfulness with Drogon Gangri Karma Rinpoche, Tibetan
Where: Bridewell Room, St Bride Foundation, Bride Lane, London EC4Y
When: Thursday 26th February 2015
Time: 6:00pm – 8:00pm
Cost: FREE
Drogon Gangri Karam Rinpoche
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You may also want to check out the Top 10 Free Events in London in February 2015.
