Shantigar Foundation
in Western Massachusetts
Arts
Meditation
Nature
Jean-Claude van Itallie, Founder
1936 - 2021
Weekly Meditation Sangha
with Marisa Viola
Lojong Study—Open to All
Thursdays 1:00 - 2:00 PM EST
Marisa's meditation sangha is an ongoing forum for deepening our understanding of the Buddhist teachings. We are currently studying the Tibetan teaching of Lojong Slogans. Sometimes described as mind training, Lojong involves the contemplation of 59 slogans, ranging from the most esoteric teachings on ultimate reality to utterly practical and even witty. For example –
In post-meditation, be a child of illusion
and
Don’t act with a twist
These slogans provide a kind of scaffolding, allowing practitioners to make choices that invite greater compassion and awakening. Truly inexhaustible in their wisdom and support, this transformative practice is made even more potent by our collective effort.
Cost $20 per session.
No one turned away for lack of funds.
To request payment options, please email us.
Marisa Viola has been meditating and studying Buddhism since 2008. She took Refuge and Boddhisattva vows in the Tibetan Buddhist Gelugpa tradition with Venerable Robina Courtin and has had the good fortune to study with Venerable Thich Nhat Hahn and many great teachers of various lineages. She began teaching in 2013 after completing The Interdependence Project's Immersion and Teacher Training program with Ethan Nichtern.
Marisa has taught in hospitals, prisons, monasteries, corporations, and universities. As a senior teacher at MNDFL in NYC, she taught thousands of classes and in their training and mentoring program. She currently teaches at Shantigar Online and at The Open Heart Project, where she serves as the community liaison. Marisa is also available for one-on-one teaching.