"Before I started coming to the English meditation class, I
had already developed a home meditation practice that I kept
up for a few years. But something inside me began nudging me
to sit with others. I didn’t know what I was looking for
exactly (maybe a sense of shared peace), but I found the
center online and decided to give it a try, even though I
wasn’t sure if language would be a barrier. From the very
first visit, I felt something I didn’t expect: a gentle
sense of belonging. The grounds are beautiful, the center
itself feels like a refuge, and the energy of the people is
calm, joyful, and full of warmth. It doesn’t feel like
someone teaching a class to you, it feels like we’re
learning with one another. It feels equal. Safe. Nourishing.
Each class begins with meditation, and it rotates between
sitting, walking, standing, and laying down. We also learn
beautiful practices like the five earth touchings and
reflect on the four foundations of mindfulness. The teacher,
Sister Hanh Vien, leads with kindness and clarity, making
the space feel grounded and welcoming. I especially love the
rice tea and learning that even having tea can be a
meditation. Since attending the class, I’ve noticed
something subtle but powerful happening within me. My
nervous system feels more settled. I’m more aware throughout
my day, not just during meditation. And one of the best
changes I’m experiencing is that I don’t feel the same need
to react emotionally to every moment. There’s more room
inside me now for peace, softness, and love. Even parenting
has shifted for me, it feels lighter, calmer, and happier.
To anyone curious about coming, I say: absolutely try it.
Just come as you are. You don’t have to know everything or
do anything perfectly. The peace you’ve been looking for
might be waiting for you here. "