Frequently Asked Questions
What do I have to bring or wear to class?
We meditate in chairs so you don't have to bring mats, or wear any special clothing. You don't need to bring a notebook since the textbook The 5-minute Meditator will give you all the information you need.
What happens if I miss a class?
You will have a credit for any class you miss. You can sit in on any other class either in that term or in the next term. It doesn't matter if you miss a particular class in the series, since each class usually includes a revision of material from earlier sessions.
What happens if I sign up and then can't attend?
If you cancel before the course starts, you will be refunded with the exception of a $10 cancellation fee. There will be no refund after the course starts, but you can transfer your booking to a future course or workshop.
How many people are in each class?
The average size is between 12-20 people.
Where are the classes held?
The classes and workshops take place in three convenient venues in Subiaco, and in the workplaces of corporate clients.
Is there any spiritual or religious component to the classes?
None at all. There is no talk of karma, reincarnation, life after death, enlightened masters, transcendental states, the power of the mind or moral virtues.
How soon can I expect results?
From the very first class. Whenever you meditate, you should realise that you feel more relaxed and calmer afterwards, even if the improvement is slight at first. Many people report that they have their best sleep on the night after attending a class.
How much do I need to practice?
I suggest a minimum of 15 minutes a day, five days a week, in which you give priority to relaxing. Any less, and your meditation will always be fragile and reliant on supportive circumstances. Much of this can be done in the wasted time during the day, while waiting around, walking, or lying awake in bed. Look for the gaps and exploit them.
Meditation is about learning to quickly relax the body. This makes it a physical skill, similar to learning a tennis stroke. Sports psychologists tell us that it takes at least 100-200 repetitions and three months to consolidate any skill, and that seems to apply to meditation as well.
Can I attend classes on a casual basis?
No. The course is designed to teach you how meditate without relying on guidance from a teacher or a class. You won't get that from dropping into classes occasionally. If you just want to be guided through meditations, many Buddhist and Yogic groups offer this service for free.
Who usually attends the courses?
Ordinary people of all ages. Workers, students and housewives. Many suffer from insomnia, anxiety, tense muscles and an overactive mind. Some come with health problems that are exacerbated by stress. Many have already tried meditation in the past but have lost the knack. Others feel they need it or are just curious to find out more.
