Meditation

The different types of meditation

mindfulness meditation

Mindfulness meditation is the approach used in the stress reduction workshops designed by Jon Kabat-Zinn. There are also groups that form around experienced practitioners, especially inspired by the Vietnamese Buddhist monk Thich Nhat Hanh who adapted the teachings of Chinese Zen (more flexible than zazen) for the West. The meeting schedule may vary from one group to another. 

Transcendental Meditation (TM)

Based on the Vedic tradition of India, the technique (with mantra) of transcendental meditation was adapted by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. It was greatly popularized by the Beatles in the late 1960s. Learning is done in 4 consecutive days, for a substantial fee.

Vipassana

Traditional Buddhist practice, kept alive especially in Burma and disseminated in the West by SN Goenka and his disciples. Vipassana is an ascetic practice (based on the continuous observation of the breath and bodily sensations), in a very structured context. To get started, you must first register for a 10-day retreat. Subsequently, other retreats are offered (3, 10 or 30 days). There are no weekly practice groups.

Zazen

Strict practice of Zen (fusion of Buddhism and Taoism) as it developed in Japan within the lineages of masters. Zazen is practiced in a fairly ritualized context: the relationship with the master is important. Due to the discipline required, it is not suitable for everyone. The different centers offer both weekly meetings and retreats (called sesshins).