DiversityAt dhamma bhŪmi

Cultural diversity

We live in a society rich with people of different appearance, genders, backgrounds, cultures and religions.

The Vipassana Meditation Centre, Dhamma Bhūmi, welcomes all to our courses. Despite our diverse beginnings and our unique lives, when we come to a Vipassana course we are united by a common cause and a common purpose, to solve the mystery of human suffering.

Non-sectarian program

Although this meditation practice comes from Gotama the Buddha, it is presented in a non-sectarian format. The Buddha was not interested in converting people. He had found the path to end suffering and his only interest was to share this knowledge with others. It is the same today. The cause of suffering lies within each of us and we only need to look inside to find its solution. This process works for anyone regardless of their origins or traditions. This is what you will learn here.

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Languages

On every course we have many students whose native language is not English. Course materials are available in almost fifty languages and some courses are even bilingual. If English is not your native language then someone from the centre will contact you to see how we can accommodate you.

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Gender diversity

We welcome people of all sexual orientations, gender identities, gender expressions and body types. However, meditation centres in this tradition are segregated into male and female sides, this includes: residential accommodation, walking areas, dining rooms, bathrooms, and within the meditation hall.

We recognise that this doesn’t work for everyone, that some people may not feel comfortable in these segregated spaces, or may not identify as exclusively male or female (ie non-binary). So, we ask you to select 'Male' or 'Female' to indicate on which side of the site you would prefer to be accommodated. You are welcome to let us know any personal details or concerns in the section of the application form that asks ’Is there anything you wish to add?’. If you would like someone to contact you to discuss any aspect of the course further, please let us know. It is important for us to have this information in advance so that arrangements can be made to best accommodate you, so you will not be distracted while you meditate. Your private information will be kept confidential.

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Physical and mental health

A Vipassana course is a rigorous and demanding undertaking, and you need to be in a good state of both physical and mental health to attend a course. You need to be well enough to follow the full timetable and schedule.

Some applicants may have a special requirement due to a health condition, a physical limitation, pregnancy, or a medical dietary restriction. We hope to accept most people with limitations, but we need to know the extent of your requirements well before your arrival. If you have a special need, please describe in the section of the application from that asks, ‘Is there anything to you wish to add?’ We will contact you to discuss your needs.

If you have a mental health condition, past or present, the course may not be suitable for you. When you apply you will be asked to complete a medical questionnaire in order to give us a more detailed picture of your condition and history. We may then need to seek advice from a health professional when considering whether it is in your best interest to attend a course.