When I first began my mindfulness journey in the monasteries of Thailand and China, I felt a mixture of deep inspiration and profound loneliness. Sitting on my pillow alone was strong, but something essential was missing. My practice took root and flourished until I found a supportive community—first at the monastery and later at Spirit Rock Meditation Center.
Being with others who also explore presence, compassion, and awareness gave me courage when I doubted myself and comfort when the road felt steep. This experience taught me a vital lesson: while personal practice is the foundation, community is the container that allows it to grow.
My practice took root and flourished until I found a supportive community, first at the monastery and later at Spirit Rock Meditation Center. Being with others who were also exploring presence, compassion, and awareness gave me courage when I doubted myself and comfort when the road felt steep.
This experience taught me a vital lesson: while personal practice is the foundation, community is the container that enables growth.
It could be the next Buddha community
Dear teacher Thich Nhat Hanh once said “The next Buddha may take the form of a community that practices understanding and loving-kindness.”
I saw the deep truth in this. A spiritual community or sangha holds us up when we can’t hold ourselves together. During my years as a monk, there were moments when I wanted to give up. The days were long; the practice was intense. But having brothers along the way who understood the silence, the struggle, and the sudden flashes of joy made it possible to persevere.
This demand does not end when you leave the monastery. Even now, as a husband, father, and teacher, I continue to rely on communities of practice to sustain and challenge me.
How to find or build your Mindfulness community
If you have ever felt isolated in your practice, know that you are not meant to walk this journey alone. Here are practical ways to build the necessary community:
- Join a local group: Most cities have local meditation groups, often associated with Zen centers, Insight Meditation societies, or yoga studios. A simple online search for “mindfulness group near me” is a great start.
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Take part in a retreat: Even a short weekend retreat can provide a powerful connection and renewal, you can immerse yourself in a temporary village of good-hearted people.
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Explore online communities: The digital world offers vibrant, global spaces to learn, practice and connect without geographic boundaries.
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Studying with resonant teachers: A good teacher gives guidance, but our peers help us embody the teachings in our daily lives.
We invite you to join us
Because the community is so vital, we are investing more energy than ever before in our own development: Mindfulness exercises Connect.
We’ve designed it to be a true digital sanctuary where you can find support, inspiration and friendship. Inside you will now find:
- Free Live Events Calendar: Plan ahead and join regular get-togethers.
- AI messaging support: Get personalized help finding exercises and educational resources.
- A deeper connection: New ways to meet and interact with like-minded people.
- A simplified dashboard: Easy navigation to everything the community has to offer.
- Inspirational posts and reflections: Wisdom and shares directly from our members.
- Free courses and workshops: Continuously learn and develop together.
- Exclusive Retreats: My next retreat offer is ready October 10.
- Mobile access: Stay connected on the go with the Circle app (iOS and Android).
Our growth as practitioners and teachers is not just about sitting in silence, but about walking this journey together.
If you have ever felt alone in your practice, I send you a warm and sincere invitation. Come see for yourself how a community can help your practice—and your heart will truly blossom.
