You can learn Anapana meditation on a 1, 2 or 3-day course. During the course you will also learn about morality and compassion, not as a doctrine but as a way of life that leads to your own happiness and that of others – a vision to set your direction by. (See Code of Behaviour.) These are the first steps of Vipassana Meditation (wisdom by insight), a method that is available when you are older. There is no charge for any of the courses, because they are paid for by donations from people who have already done a course.
Anyone can come to these courses, depending on the age range of the course, but you need permission from your parents if you are still under their care. Ask them to check this website or contact your local centre.
Students in Germany
These are held around the world at schools, camps etc., and also at our Meditation Centres. The age groups vary from place to place, so you need to check your local details. (See Course Dates). The Anapana course was designed for 8-16 year olds, but sometimes teenagers up to 18 can attend.
Course at a school in Malaysia
You learn the basics of meditation and the half hour practice sessions are combined with interactive discussion, creative activities, and quiet games in smaller groups. The sample timetable is from 9.30am to 4.00pm but this varies from place to place. Lunch and a snack are normally provided. The teachers are helped by other volunteers who make sure everyone has a good time.
These are mostly held at our meditation centres, which are pretty quiet and peaceful places. Boys and girls are taught in separate groups by male and female teachers where appropriate. The meditation sessions are the same as for a 1-day course, but there is more time to relax, to meditate and go deeper and to discuss your practice with the teachers.
View at Vipassana Centre in France
Vipassana Meditation is an ancient method of gaining wisdom by insight - looking at the interaction of your own mind and body. It has universal appeal and is taught around the world to people from every continent, every class, every race and every religion.
The course is designed for young people aged 15-19 years in South Asia. At present these are only available in India and Myanmar in Hindi and Myanmar languages, not in English or other languages. There are separate courses for young men and young women. The technique is the same as on the 10-day courses for adults, but with evening talks that are more suited to teenagers in the region.
Teenagers 18 years and older may apply to join a 10-day course for adults. You should be mature enough to follow the Code of Behaviour strictly, including the rule of Noble Silence. Please see the Vipassana Meditation web-site for further details.
Mountain setting of Vipassana Centre at Igatpuri, India
