Lifting a Heavy Heart: when we feel discouraged with Gen Mila

A 4-week series of meditation classes in Johannesburg on turning life’s difficulties into inner strength.

When life knocks us down, it is easy to believe that the heaviness is simply who we are. Buddhism offers a kinder view: discouragement is a passing state of mind, not our true nature – and we can learn to tell the difference without blaming ourselves. We explore how shifting our attention from “my problems” towards care for others naturally lifts the mind, and how a simple change of motivation can bring meaning into even the most ordinary day.

Do you ever feel that life hands you more than you can carry? Disappointment, hurtful people, money worries, health problems – sometimes it all piles up, and joy seems very far away.

Buddha’s teachings offer a surprisingly hopeful message: our happiness depends far more on our state of mind than on our circumstances. Worry, low mood and hurt are experiences of the mind – and the mind can be trained. With gentle, patient practice, even the situations we would never choose can become sources of strength, wisdom and a quiet, steady joy.

In this four-week series of meditation classes in Johannesburg, we look at four situations everyone meets sooner or later, and learn practical ways to meet each one with a calmer, kinder and more positive mind.

Everyone is welcome. 

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About the Teacher:

As a student of Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso, Gen Kelsang Mila is a modern – day Kadampa Nun and the resident teacher of Vajrapani Kadampa Buddhist Centre. She has been a student of Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche for 20 years and ordained for fifteen years. Her teachings are always practical and easy to apply to everyday life.

How to Join in ?

Zoom Online: Please use the link provided in your email ticket to join online.

In Person at Vajrapani Kadampa Buddhist Center

The Woods, 345 Jan Smuts Ave, Upper level, Craighall Park, 2196

Best place to park? 

Please use the Rothesay entrance and use the outside staircase. 

Walk through the passage to the courtyard, we are the shop in the corner

You are invited to arrive a few minutes before the class starts to register and settle in or have a cup of tea or coffee.  We have a book shop to browse, water on sale, and it is helpful to bring a pen and notebook if you would like to take notes. There is secure and ample parking.

Become a monthly member ? Affordable Membership options here

If you would like to make a donation, click here.

All donations contribute to the operation and development of the center, providing opportunities for the public to learn and understand the precious Dharma (teachings).

Refund Policy

If you cancel within 24 hours, no refund. If you cancel anytime before 24 hours, 75% refund. Please contact epc@meditation.org.za