Sitting Group / Dharma Study
Through this group, we hope to create a community of young(ish) practitioners who are interested in learning, discussing, and exploring the foundations of meditation and Dharma practice. The group is intended for individuals under the age of 50, but is welcome and inclusive of all.
The group meets weekly on Sunday evenings from 6:30-7:30 pm, beginning February 22, 2026, but anyone is welcome to join at any time. Details can be found below.
Each group will include meditation instructions, a brief talk, and a mindful discussion period.
Study Focus / The Four Satipatthanas
YaD will begin by exploring the foundations of mindfulness, traditionally known as the Satipatthanas. The four foundations of mindfulness — body, feeling, mind, and dhammas — provide the ground for early Buddhist meditation practice. The Satipatthanas amount to a comprehensive framework for cultivating and establishing mindfulness on the various facets of present moment experience. Whether someone is brand new to meditation or has been practicing for decades, the foundations of mindfulness serve as a profound guide for developing mindfulness. Given the experimental nature of the YaD sangha, that the sangha will evolve based on interest from ISD's community, the Satipatthanas allow for a flexible range of discussion. Thus, YaD can decide to devote anywhere from weeks to months discussing the foundations of mindfulness.
REUBEN WEISS
Reuben has maintained a daily sitting practice since 2012. He has continued to deepen his practice through intensive periods of silent meditation retreats, both self-led and at various centers and monasteries throughout North America, amounting to over 1.5 years on retreat in total. His two primary influences are Early Buddhist teachings and later Buddhist teachings focusing on non-dualism. In 2022, he became a Trained Mindfulness Facilitator through UCLA. He has facilitated mindfulness trainings at organizations ranging from Columbia University to Google. When not sequestered away in silence, he enjoys listening to horrible music and strolling aimlessly.
ABOUT THE GROUP
FORMAT
The group meets weekly on Sunday evenings from 6:30-7:30 pm at the First Unitarian Universalist Church of San Diego - Hillcrest, 4190 Front St, San Diego, CA 92103 across the street from the UCSD medical center. The entrance to church parking is on Arbor Drive and parking is validated. Meetings are in room 323.
Each group will include meditation instructions, a brief talk, and a mindful discussion period.
Do I need to have previous experience in Mindfulness or Vipassana?
No, newcomers and experienced practitioners are welcome. Drop-ins are also welcome.
Other Information
By signing up below, you will receive emails containing the weekly talks and other resources and announcements, as well as have access to our online forum on Google Groups.
Question? Please contact Reuben at reuben@insightsd.org.
Is There a cost to join this group?
Following a 2,600-year tradition in which the community financially supports the offerings provided, the teachings and meditation sessions in this group are offered on a generosity (Dāna) basis. No one is turned away because they cannot give. We are encouraging members to give what their budget and hearts of generosity allow, and/or to sign up for monthly giving on our donations page.
By entering your information, you will be included in our Google Groups and email notification system.