Dharmachakra is a Buddhist meditation center in the New Kadampa Tradition. You do not need to be Buddhist to benefit from the teachings and practices. Weekly meditation classes are offered in Millburn, Shrewsbury, Little Silver, Ridgewood, Madison and more. Everyone is welcome! Check out www.meditatenj.org for more information. I originally found this center through a basic Google search, and then learned more about it via the official Facebook page (link: https://www.facebook.com/pg/MeditateNJ/about/?ref=page_internal)
This specific location is conveniently located in the Millburn Mall off Vauxhall Road in Union, NJ. It is a small space which has a tiny lobby to take off your shoes, check in and pay any class fees (if applicable). It opens into a larger meditation area with a beautiful Buddhist shrine, chairs and cushions to meditate, books on Kadampa Buddhism (for sale), and a small back area with drinks/snacks and a place for the teacher to organize their things before a meeting/meditation. The interior is minimalist, comfortable, and welcoming. This is a wonderful, safe space to learn about Buddhism and practice meditation with others.
I was always interested in Buddhism, but had never meditated before. Since moving nearby a few months ago, I have found a true community within this Center. For $15, you are able to partake in a 90min. meditation class which teaches you about Buddhist tradition and helps walk you through self-guided meditations. At this center, this class is usually held every Thursday from 7pm-830pm. Beginners are welcome, as are continuing members. You can become a member of the temple (for around $700/year) but this is not required to join in on many of the classes and festivities. All participants are also welcome to visit/meditate at the nearby NYC Kadampa Meditation Center, as well as the Kadampa Center upstate in tranquil Glen Spey, NY which hosts a series of wonderful retreats throughout the year. I haven't been yet but am very much looking forward to going.
What I love most about Buddhism is that it cultivates knowledge and growth to more deeply understand your mind. I highly encourage anybody remotely interested in Buddhism to visit here. read more