When I first began practicing mindfulness in the monasteries of Thailand and China, I felt a mix of inspiration and solitude. Sitting on my cushion alone meant a lot to me, but something was missing. It wasn’t until I found a supportive community, first at the monastery and later at Spirit Rock Meditation Center, that my practice took root.
Being with others who were also exploring presence, compassion, and awareness gave me courage when I doubted myself and comfort when the path felt steep. This experience taught me that while personal practice is the foundation, community is the container that allows it to grow.
The Next Buddha May Be a Community
The teacher Thich Nhat Hanh once said, “The next Buddha may take the form of a community, practicing understanding and loving-kindness.”
I have seen this to be true. A spiritual community, or sangha, holds us when we cannot hold ourselves. During my years as a monk, there were moments I wanted to give up. The days were long; the practice was intense. But having brothers and sisters on the path, people who understood the silence, the struggle, and the sudden flashes of joy, made it possible to persevere.
This need doesn’t end when you leave the monastery. Even now, as a husband, father, and teacher, I continue to lean on communities of practice to sustain and challenge me.
How to Find or Build Your Mindfulness Community
If you’ve ever felt isolated in your practice, know that you do not have to practice alone. Here are practical ways to cultivate the community you need:
- Join a Local Group: Most cities have local meditation groups, often linked to Zen centers, Insight Meditation societies, or yoga studios. A simple online search for “mindfulness group near me” is a good place to start.
- Attend a Retreat: Even a short weekend retreat can give you a sense of connection and rest among people who share your interest in practice.
- Explore Online Communities: Online spaces let you learn, practice, and connect with people anywhere.
- Study with Resonant Teachers: A good teacher provides guidance, but it is our peers who help us embody the teachings in our daily lives.
You Are Invited to Join Ours
Because community is so vital, we are investing more energy than ever into growing ours: Mindfulness Exercises Connect.
We’ve designed it as an online space where you can find support, ideas, and friendship. Inside, you’ll now find:
- A Calendar of Free Live Events: Plan ahead and join regular gatherings.
- AI Messaging Support: Get personalized help finding practices and teaching resources.
- Deeper Connection: New ways to meet and interact with like-minded people.
- A Streamlined Dashboard: Easy navigation to everything the community offers.
- Inspirational Posts & Reflections: Wisdom and shares directly from our members.
- Free Courses & Workshops: Continuously learn and grow together.
- Retreats: See the meditation retreat with Sean Fargo inside.
- Mobile Access: Stay connected on the go via the Circle app (iOS & Android).
Our growth as practitioners and teachers comes from more than sitting in silence. It also comes from practicing together.
If you’ve ever felt alone in your practice, you’re welcome to join us. Come and see for yourself how a community can support your practice.
