Family Practice

Family as a Practice, Practice as a Family
Third Sundays, 10:30 am – 12:00 pm
Will switch to third Sundays in 2024: Jan 21, Feb 18, Mar 17, Apr 21, May 19, Jun 16 – (Fathers Day!)
See the 2024 program schedule here

Family is a place of practice. How do we work with our minds and hearts in the sometimes turbulent waters of family life? We can all use reminders and support to stay connected to our patience, generosity, discipline, and wisdom. Each week we will explore a different theme – something valuable for both parents and children. 

These sessions provide:

  • Age-appropriate, secular introduction to mindfulness (the innate qualities of one’s mind and heart);
  • Support in maintaining a sitting practice;
  • Support in developing mindfulness and compassion in the everyday moments of family life;
  • Support in aligning our parenting with our values;
  • An activity the whole family can participate in together!

 

During our 90 minute program, some activities will happen all together as a group and others will be focused for children or adults. We will have a space for children’s activities set up in an adjoining room, or separate part of the room. One professional instructor will be available for the children, and they may either choose to work on an activity or they may choose to stay with their parents for some -or all- the session. Parents will be responsible for feeding their children and any bathroom breaks or diaper changes. 

We welcome the whole range of family life, and recognize that some children might be shy or rambunctious, some might cry, some will nurse. This is not a silent retreat. We will work to make the space safe for everyone, and we invite you to do what is comfortable with your own family.

Everyone is invited to stay afterward to share tea and BYO snacks in the community area with other families. Please refrain from bringing products which contain nuts.

 

Third Sunday morning 10:30am-12:00pm – Suggested donation $10-$25 to help cover the cost of the children’s instructor, and the space (you can pay with a card online, or bring cash with you).

Health & Accessibility: In-person participants agree to follow the current pandemic safety policy. Additionally, we ask you to limit the use of scented products, as many people have chemical sensitivities. Note that our building is not wheelchair accessible

FAQ Common questions might be answered on our FAQ page.

If you’re coming for the first time, we welcome you as our guest. After that please consider making a donation. Please practice generosity at the level that feels most appropriate. Your donations support programs such as this and promote a bright, caring, and brave environment of dharma practice.

Donate via:
Donation Page
-or-
paypal.me/shambhalaboston
-or-
venmo: @ShambhalaBoston0015 (use 0015 if it asks you to confirm a phone number) and mention “Family Practice” in the memo.