About us
Tokyo Meditation Meetup!
Welcome fellow meditators! Join the Tokyo Mindfulness Substack community here to stay updated with events, retreats and guided meditations.
We hold weekly meditation sessions, usually on Tuesday and Thursday nights for one hour. We have regular group meditation sessions focused on meditation in āthe buddhist tradition,ā without the traditional bowing to statues or chanting. Just sitting and focusing on the breath, body, and mind, for the most part. We also have retreats of varying lengths for those who want to go deeper.
The meditation sessions are suitable for both beginners and more advanced meditators -- I will also indicate which day is reserved for advanced/beginner. Emphasis will be on the development of mindfulness and wisdom, as well as lovingkindness. Chairs and meditation cushions are available. Guidance in these methods is provided in English.
There's also a chance to exchange views and experiences. The point is to have a non-judgmental safe-space to share your experience. If you want to remain silent, that's fine, too.
This group can be a starting point for practicing, discussing or experiencing the dhamma/dharma together and may serve to support your personal practice. :)
Come join us!
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Membership: Our regular sessions are typically 1,000 yen. If you become a paid member of Tokyo Mindfulness for 3,000 yen/month, you get access to ALL of our regular events, as well as discounted and priority access to retreats and special events. Get a membership here.
ā ļø An important note about No-Shows: We have a limited number of space for this event. If you canāt attend, please cancel your RSVP so that others can join. Repeated no-shows will result in you getting kicked out of the group.
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Mindfulness for Companies
1-1 Mindfulness Coaching
If you are looking to bring mindfulness in your day-to-day life, let go of your ego and overcome burnout, you can book a coaching call with Misha directly here: https://www.mishayurchenko.coach/
Book Recommendations
Hey all, I wanted to share some books about meditation that have been helpful along my journey and that you might find useful as well! I have listed them in order of āeasiest to readā starting from the top, where as those towards the bottom of the list are a little bit more heavy.
- Bear Awareness by Ajahn Brahm
- Wherever you go, there you are by Jon Kabat-Zin
- Wise Heart by Jack Kornfield
- Zen Mind, Beginners Mind, by Shunryu Suzuki
- Radical Acceptance, by Tara Brach
- Waking Up:Ā A guide to Spirituality without religion by Sam Harris
- Mindfulness, Bliss and Beyond by Ajahn Brahm
- The Wisdom of Insecurity by Alan Watts
- The Mind Illuminated by Culadasa (a very comprehensive guide)
- Focused and Fearless by Shaila Catherine
- Satipatthana Meditation - A practice guide, by Analayo
- Path to Nibbana, by David Johnson (metta practice)
- Manual of Insight, by Mahasi Sayadaw
- Mastering the Core Teachings of the Buddha by Daniel Ingram
- Seeing that Frees, by Rob Burbea
And, for thousands of free recorded lectures, talks and meditations from Buddhist teachers all around the world, check out this site: https://dharmaseed.org/
Featured event
Beginnerās Mind - intro to mindfulness & candle gazing w/ Marco
Beginnerās Mind - Session 1
Introduction to Mindfulness & Candle Gazing
Beginnerās Mind is a 4-week introductory course in mindfulness meditation and contemplative practice inspired by the spirit of Shoshin (ååæ): the attitude of approaching the present moment with openness and curiosity, that is, with a beginnerās mind.
āIn the beginner's mind there are many possibilities, but in the expert's there are few.ā ā Shunryu Suzuki
This first session offers an introduction to mindfulness meditation through a guided candle-gazing (kasina) practice, a traditional concentration practice used to cultivate steadiness of attention and calm awareness.
The afternoon will include:
ā¢ Introduction to mindfulness and meditation
ā¢ Guided candle-gazing meditation
ā¢ Casual discussion and tea afterwards
Whether you are completely new to meditation, returning to practice, or simply wishing to deepen your understanding, the course offers a gentle introduction to the meditative foundations of concentration, insight, and loving-kindness.
Participants are welcome to attend individual sessions independently, although attending the full 4-week series is encouraged in order to experience the progressive development of the course.
The full course includes:
ā¢ Session 1 - Introduction to Mindfulness & Candle Gazing
ā¢ Session 2 - Mindfulness of Breath
ā¢ Session 3 - Mindfulness of Body
ā¢ Session 4 - Loving-Kindness Meditation
ā¢ Doors open from 14:00. We begin at 14:10 and meditate for approximately 45 minutes. Please arrive on time.
ā¢ Guidance will be provided.
ā¢ Meditation cushions and chairs are available, and you are welcome to bring anything else you need to sit comfortably.
We will meet at California Bliss Dept.
5-39-10 Naritahigashi, Suginami, Tokyo 166-0015
3-min walk from Minami-Asagaya station (Marunouchi Line)
10-min walk from Asagaya station (ChūŠLine)
entrance is on the 4th floor !
Price: Donation-based. All proceeds will be donated to the Orphans' Ministry led by the Franciscan Chapel Center Tokyo.
After the meditation, we will have some time for casual discussion and tea in a relaxed, non-judgmental environment.
See you there (:
About your mindfulness teacher:
Marco MartĆnez is an experienced meditation practitioner who has explored Vipassana, mindfulness meditation, and contemplative disciplines for over 10 years. He has participated in retreats in the traditions of Goenka, Rob Burbea, and Pa-Auk, and also has a background in Ashtanga Yoga, Pranayama, Qigong, and Kriya Yoga practices.
Marco now practices as a Catholic Christian, integrating contemplative practices from different traditions within a Christian spiritual framework.
Upcoming events
5
- Ā„3,000.00
Mindfulness Hike: Mt. Tonosu & Mt. Tenran + River Dip
Hanno Station, Hanno, Saitama, JPJoin us on Sunday May 31st for a chill mindfulness hike near Hanno + hanging out by the river on the way back!
We will climb up two tiny mountains connected by a trail: Mt. Tonosu and Mt. Tenran. After the hike, we can swim and hang out by Hanno river. š
This is a chance to reconnect with nature, yourself and like-minded souls. It's beginner-friendly and will include some stops for meditation, barefoot walking and simple mindfulness practices in nature.
š Details:
- Date: Sunday, May 31st
- Meeting Point: 10:00 AM at Hanno Station north exit (meet directly there)
- Activities: Hiking, guided meditation, optional river dip
- Cost: Ā„3,000 (cash or pay pay!)
š„¾ What Weāll Do
- Hike through lush mountain trails (easy to moderate, 3 hours total)
- Pause for 2 or 3 mindfulness activities and a 20-minute nature meditation + group sharing
- Enjoy your bento lunch outdoors (bring yours)
- Optional river dip before heading back to Tokyo (~5 PM return)
šæ What to Expect
- A grounded, heart-opening day in nature
- Small group vibes for connection and ease
- Periods of silence and stillness combined with movement and activity
- A digital detox (phone off = presence on) ā be prepared to give me your phone or put it in your bag.
- Guided mindfulness and time to reflect, share, and breathe
š° Price: 3,000 yen.
š§³ What to Bring
- Comfortable hiking shoes
- Swimsuit & towel
- Water bottle
- Bento lunch + snacks
- Blanket or mat for sitting
- Sunscreen, hat
Questions? Call/text me: 090-8013-7249. See you soon! š²š§āāļø
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Join the Tokyo Mindfulness Substack community here to stay updated with events, retreats and guided meditations.12 attendees Beginnerās Mind - intro to mindfulness & candle gazing w/ Marco
California Bliss Dept., 5-39-10 Naritahigashi, Suginami, Tokyo 166-0015 4F, Tokyo, JPBeginnerās Mind - Session 1
Introduction to Mindfulness & Candle Gazing
Beginnerās Mind is a 4-week introductory course in mindfulness meditation and contemplative practice inspired by the spirit of Shoshin (ååæ): the attitude of approaching the present moment with openness and curiosity, that is, with a beginnerās mind.
āIn the beginner's mind there are many possibilities, but in the expert's there are few.ā ā Shunryu Suzuki
This first session offers an introduction to mindfulness meditation through a guided candle-gazing (kasina) practice, a traditional concentration practice used to cultivate steadiness of attention and calm awareness.
The afternoon will include:
ā¢ Introduction to mindfulness and meditation
ā¢ Guided candle-gazing meditation
ā¢ Casual discussion and tea afterwardsWhether you are completely new to meditation, returning to practice, or simply wishing to deepen your understanding, the course offers a gentle introduction to the meditative foundations of concentration, insight, and loving-kindness.
Participants are welcome to attend individual sessions independently, although attending the full 4-week series is encouraged in order to experience the progressive development of the course.
The full course includes:
ā¢ Session 1 - Introduction to Mindfulness & Candle Gazing
ā¢ Session 2 - Mindfulness of Breath
ā¢ Session 3 - Mindfulness of Body
ā¢ Session 4 - Loving-Kindness Meditationā¢ Doors open from 14:00. We begin at 14:10 and meditate for approximately 45 minutes. Please arrive on time.
ā¢ Guidance will be provided.
ā¢ Meditation cushions and chairs are available, and you are welcome to bring anything else you need to sit comfortably.We will meet at California Bliss Dept.
5-39-10 Naritahigashi, Suginami, Tokyo 166-0015
3-min walk from Minami-Asagaya station (Marunouchi Line)
10-min walk from Asagaya station (ChūŠLine)
entrance is on the 4th floor !Price: Donation-based. All proceeds will be donated to the Orphans' Ministry led by the Franciscan Chapel Center Tokyo.
After the meditation, we will have some time for casual discussion and tea in a relaxed, non-judgmental environment.
See you there (:
About your mindfulness teacher:
Marco MartĆnez is an experienced meditation practitioner who has explored Vipassana, mindfulness meditation, and contemplative disciplines for over 10 years. He has participated in retreats in the traditions of Goenka, Rob Burbea, and Pa-Auk, and also has a background in Ashtanga Yoga, Pranayama, Qigong, and Kriya Yoga practices.Marco now practices as a Catholic Christian, integrating contemplative practices from different traditions within a Christian spiritual framework.
12 attendees
Beginnerās Mind - mindfulness of breath w/ Marco
California Bliss Dept., 5-39-10 Naritahigashi, Suginami, Tokyo 166-0015 4F, Tokyo, JPBeginnerās Mind - Session 2
Mindfulness of Breath
Beginnerās Mind is a 4-week introductory course in mindfulness meditation and contemplative practice inspired by the spirit of Shoshin (ååæ): the attitude of approaching the present moment with openness and curiosity, that is, with a beginnerās mind.
āIn the beginner's mind there are many possibilities, but in the expert's there are few.ā ā Shunryu Suzuki
This second session explores mindfulness of breathing (ÄnÄpÄnasati), one of the foundational practices of samatha meditation. Using the breath as an anchor for attention, participants will cultivate calm awareness through sustained observation of the natural breathing process.
The afternoon will include:
ā¢ Introduction to mindfulness of breathing
ā¢ Guided mindfulness of breath meditation
ā¢ Casual discussion and tea afterwardsWhether you are completely new to meditation, returning to practice, or simply wishing to deepen your understanding, the course offers a gentle introduction to the meditative foundations of concentration, insight, and loving-kindness.
Participants are welcome to attend individual sessions independently, although attending the full 4-week series is encouraged in order to experience the progressive development of the course.
The full course includes:
ā¢ Session 1 - Introduction to Mindfulness & Candle Gazing
ā¢ Session 2 - Mindfulness of Breath
ā¢ Session 3 - Mindfulness of Body
ā¢ Session 4 - Loving-Kindness Meditationā¢ Doors open from 14:00. We begin at 14:10 and meditate for approximately 45 minutes. Please arrive on time.
ā¢ Guidance will be provided.
ā¢ Meditation cushions and chairs are available, and you are welcome to bring anything else you need to sit comfortably.We will meet at California Bliss Dept.
5-39-10 Naritahigashi, Suginami, Tokyo 166-0015
3-min walk from Minami-Asagaya station (Marunouchi Line)
10-min walk from Asagaya station (ChūŠLine)
entrance is on the 4th floor !Price: Donation-based. All proceeds will be donated to the Orphans' Ministry led by the Franciscan Chapel Center Tokyo.
After the meditation, we will have some time for casual discussion and tea in a relaxed, non-judgmental environment.
See you there (:
About your mindfulness teacher:
Marco MartĆnez is an experienced meditation practitioner who has explored Vipassana, mindfulness meditation, and contemplative disciplines for over 10 years. He has participated in retreats in the traditions of Goenka, Rob Burbea, and Pa-Auk, and also has a background in Ashtanga Yoga, Pranayama, Qigong, and Kriya Yoga practices.Marco now practices as a Catholic Christian, integrating contemplative practices from different traditions within a Christian spiritual framework.
11 attendees
Beginnerās Mind - mindfulness of body w/ Marco
California Bliss Dept., 5-39-10 Naritahigashi, Suginami, Tokyo 166-0015 4F, Tokyo, JPBeginnerās Mind - Session 3
Mindfulness of Body
Beginnerās Mind is a 4-week introductory course in mindfulness meditation and contemplative practice inspired by the spirit of Shoshin (ååæ): the attitude of approaching the present moment with openness and curiosity, that is, with a beginnerās mind.
āIn the beginner's mind there are many possibilities, but in the expert's there are few.ā ā Shunryu Suzuki
This third session explores mindfulness of the body through insight meditation (vipassana) using guided body-scanning practice. By bringing non-reactive awareness to bodily sensations, participants will begin cultivating deeper insight into the changing nature of experience and the classical contemplative themes of impermanence, unsatisfactoriness, and non-self.
The afternoon will include:
ā¢ Introduction to insight meditation and body awareness
ā¢ Guided body-scanning meditation
ā¢ Casual discussion and tea afterwardsWhether you are completely new to meditation, returning to practice, or simply wishing to deepen your understanding, the course offers a gentle introduction to the meditative foundations of concentration, insight, and loving-kindness.
Participants are welcome to attend individual sessions independently, although attending the full 4-week series is encouraged in order to experience the progressive development of the course.
The full course includes:
ā¢ Session 1 - Introduction to Mindfulness & Candle Gazing
ā¢ Session 2 - Mindfulness of Breath
ā¢ Session 3 - Mindfulness of Body
ā¢ Session 4 - Loving-Kindness Meditationā¢ Doors open from 14:00. We begin at 14:10 and meditate for approximately 45 minutes. Please arrive on time.
ā¢ Guidance will be provided.
ā¢ Meditation cushions and chairs are available, and you are welcome to bring anything else you need to sit comfortably.We will meet at California Bliss Dept.
5-39-10 Naritahigashi, Suginami, Tokyo 166-0015
3-min walk from Minami-Asagaya station (Marunouchi Line)
10-min walk from Asagaya station (ChūŠLine)
entrance is on the 4th floor !Price: Donation-based. All proceeds will be donated to the Orphans' Ministry led by the Franciscan Chapel Center Tokyo.
After the meditation, we will have some time for casual discussion and tea in a relaxed, non-judgmental environment.
See you there (:
About your mindfulness teacher:
Marco MartĆnez is an experienced meditation practitioner who has explored Vipassana, mindfulness meditation, and contemplative disciplines for over 10 years. He has participated in retreats in the traditions of Goenka, Rob Burbea, and Pa-Auk, and also has a background in Ashtanga Yoga, Pranayama, Qigong, and Kriya Yoga practices.Marco now practices as a Catholic Christian, integrating contemplative practices from different traditions within a Christian spiritual framework.
8 attendees
Past events
227
