Essential Dharma Study
An Ongoing Exploration of Traditional Buddhist Teachings and How They Apply to Real Life
"The dharma is every breath we take, every thought we think, every word we speak, if we do it with awareness and an open, caring heart."
Registration
Please register once to join and participate in this ongoing study group.
The Buddha’s core teachings — on suffering, impermanence, compassion, and freedom — aren’t abstract philosophy. They’re practical observations about how our minds work and how we can live with more clarity and less unnecessary struggle. This weekly study group is a place to explore those teachings together.
Each Thursday, we gather around a specific dharma topic — sometimes chosen by the group, sometimes by the guiding teacher — and spend an hour in peer-to-peer dialogue, shared practice, and honest reflection. The emphasis is on understanding the teachings through your own experience, not just learning about them. Sessions close with a short lovingkindness practice.
This group meets between Essential Dharma Study courses and includes access to a private online space for continued conversation and practice support.
Who it’s for: All RIM community members, from newcomers to experienced practitioners. Curiosity matters more than background.
In this group, you’ll be invited to:
- Explore core Buddhist teachings in accessible, plain language
- Share your own experience and learn from others’ perspectives
- Discover how ancient wisdom applies to the challenges of daily life
- Build genuine friendships with fellow practitioners (kalyana mitta — spiritual friendship)