The General Program

General Program (GP) classes are drop-in by nature. These classes are suitable for beginners and experienced practitioners alike, and are designed to help those looking for Buddhist wisdom to help with stress relief and relaxation, as well as those interested in exploring the nature of the mind, and pursuing the Buddhist path.

Classes explore the basic framework of Buddhist teachings and meditation and explain how to use Buddha’s advice in our daily lives to solve our problems. All General Program classes are based on commentaries by Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso.

A typical class consists of a guided meditation, a teaching based on the meditation topic, a "turn-and-talk" discussion and final meditation. Although classes are given as a series around one specific topic, they can also be taken individually, as each class is also contained.

Classes last between one hour to 1.5 hours.  Chair and cushions are provided by the Center. There is no physical exercise, yoga, or stretching involved.

All classes and courses are taught by qualified Kadampa teachers who have a thorough understanding of Buddhist philosophy gained through their own meditation practice and guided study of Geshe Kelsang Gyatso’s comprehensive texts.

General Program classes take place at our main center in Chelsea and at numerous branch locations throughout the five boroughs and New Jersey. Visit our General Program class guide for a complete list of GPs currently being offered..

Everyone is welcome regardless of belief;  you do not need to be Buddhist to attend.