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The Willpower Institute was established to assist those interested in understanding meditation through theory and practice. The Institute believes if enough people develop a consistent meditation practice, world conflict will be reduced. The main goal of meditation is to accumulate mind power. With increased mind power, people can control their emotions, reduce violence and increase harmony in relationships. Today, The Willpower Institute has 75 branches around Thailand as well as branches in the USA and Canada.
About the Course
A comprehensive Meditation Course has been developed by Phra Dhammamongkolyarn, Luangphor Viriyang Sirintharo, Lord Abbot of the Dhammamongkol Temple in Bangkok. With over 80 years of experience Luangphor Viriyang is seen as a Master Teacher of Meditation. The course is taught in centers across Canada and the United States by Luangphor Viriyang Sirintharo and/or his certified graduate students. The Master Teacher attends orientations, provides guest lectures and leads the examination process as well as meditation retreats. This is a rare opportunity to study his teachings for personal development or to become certified by one of the most renowned Master Teachers of Meditation. Luangphor’s roots are based in Buddhism; however, meditation is not a religion. This course focuses on teaching meditation not religion. People of all faiths are welcome.
The class consists of lectures on the principles of meditation, practical application of the theory, as well as discussions and review sessions. Students taking part in the course who wish to be certified are required to take an exam at the end of the course and will also be given an opportunity to attend a meditation retreat.
The Learning Approach
The course focuses on Shamatha meditation. Shamatha is a Pali word which translates into English as calm abiding, which nicely describes both the technique and state of mind in this form of meditation. In terms of meditation technique, through focusing our attention in specific ways, we learn to stay present in the moment without engaging in whatever distractions our environment or mind may create for us. We are present, but not engaged in the world around us or in us is what is meant by abiding.
Over time, this practice creates calmness or tranquility in the mind. Shamatha is the foundation of any good meditation practice, including Vipasyana (insight meditation). The theory and practice of Vipasyana is discussed, but is not conducted in practices. This is because it takes some time to create a firm foundation of Shamatha which is necessary for Vipasyana practice.
The class consists of lectures on the principles of meditation, practical application of the theory, as well as discussion and review sessions. Students taking part in the course who wish to be certified are required to take an exam at the end of the course and will also be given an opportunity to attend a meditation retreat.
Take the Meditation Course for Free
Currently, the Willpower Institute offers a free Meditation Course that is suitable for both novice and experienced meditators. The course is offered for both personal development and in depth study. If you are interested in personal development, there are no attendance requirements.
The Willpower Institute is a nonprofit organization whose purpose is to promote world peace through meditation. As a result, there is no tuition fee. There is a nominal textbook fee which is paid in order to cover printing costs. Students are not required to purchase the textbooks, but it is recommended if you are planning to become certified.
For more information
The Willpower Institute, Phuket Branch
Address: 145, Phang Nga Road, Tambol Talad Yai, Amphur Muang, Phuket 83000
Tel: +66 (0) 76 217 321
Open: Monday – Friday 17.00 hrs – 20.30 hrs
Website: www.samathi.com, www.samathiphuket.com
Facebook: samathiphuket
