Seeker’s Path

Stepping into Meditation and Community

This six-week course introduces participants to foundational Buddhist concepts and practices while connecting in community.

About the course

Meditate, Study Foundational Buddhist Concepts, and Connect with Others

Are you interested in learning meditation to experience more mindfulness and compassion? Would you like to connect with others who are also interested in meditating and growing together?

Our Stepping into Meditation and Community course can support you in this goal. During this course, we will provide a framework for foundational Buddhist practices and dharma while inviting you into the warmth of sangha (community).

Through inner exploration and engaging with the community in reflection and discussion, you will learn accessible, time-tested Tibetan Buddhist practices and dharma teachings supporting your awakening to deeper peace, happiness, and compassion.

Morning Course with Emily Ballentine

January 27 – March 3, 2026
Meets Tuesdays 9:00am – 10:30am MT
Online Only

Evening Course with Rachel Ashley

January 29 – March 5, 2026
Meets Thursdays 6:00pm – 7:30pm MT
Online + In-Person in Missoula, MT

Facilitators

Emily Ballentine
Rachel Ashley

When

We have two courses starting in January 2026.
January 27-March 3, 9:00am-10:30am MT
January 29-March 5, 6:00pm-7:30pm MT

Where

In-Person and Online

Explore Our Tuition Options

Learn More

TIERED PRICING SYSTEM

We offer a tiered pricing system for course registration. Please choose the option that works best for you.

Supported: The community will supplement this reduced fee for those with limited financial resources who will benefit from participating in the Stepping into Meditation & Community course.

Suggested: For those with sufficient financial resources who can pay fair value for the experience.

Sponsored: For those with the financial resources and the desire to support access for others interested in the Stepping into Meditation & Community course.

Online & In-Person
Supported $35
Suggested $50
Sponsored $75

OUR PROMISE

No one will be turned away due to a lack of funds. If you would like to apply for a grant to attend this course, please contact kmorris@namchak.org.

What you’ll learn

Foundational Meditation Practices and Real-Life Applications

The Benefits of Setting Intentions

Loosen self-centered habits, open the heart, and generate the boundless qualities that support awakening for the benefit of all beings.

Shamata or Calm Abiding

A foundational meditation practice.

Foundational Buddhist Concepts

Explore the Three Jewels, the Four Noble Truths, the Four Immeasurables, and more.

Loving Kindness

The boundless wish for all beings to be happy and at peace, including ourselves.

Tonglen

A compassion practice of giving and receiving.

Engaged Bodhicitta

Exploring our work in the world and how we can make a difference.

Who is this course for?

The content and meditation practices offered here are grounded in Buddhism; you do not need to be a Buddhist to enjoy or benefit from the content.

This course offers guidance and support for individuals seeking to establish a consistent meditation practice alongside others on a similar path. Experienced practitioners who want to deepen their practice through shared meditation and contemplation of the Dharma are also welcome. This course provides an opportunity to connect with the Namchak Sangha and cultivate a sense of belonging within a supportive practice environment.

meet your Facilitator

Emily Ballentine

In slowing down, we remember who we are.”

Emily Ballentine's Journey

meet your Facilitator

Rachel Ashley

Each breath is a new beginning.”

Rachel Ashley's Journey

Take A step