Karuna Meditation Center
Karuna Meditation Center is a Buddhist meditation center located in the town of Kamala on the island of Phuket in Thailand. The guiding teacher is Michael Gregory and The Primary teachings and practices are based on the Anāpānasati Sutta (mindfulness of breathing), Mahasatipatthana Sutta (four foundations of mindfulness), the Heart Sutra (perfection of wisdom) as well as the Brahmaviharas (Four Immeasurables: loving kindness, compassion, joy and equanimity).
Daily Dharma talks and meditation instruction are available to anyone visiting the center.
Karuna is one of few centers in Thailand which is led by English speaking lay-practitioners, instead of monks. The staff of Karuna also attempts to avoid religious ritual, focusing instead on the practical core of the Buddha's teaching to end your suffering and increase your peace. The teachings are given in a straightforward and direct manner and are easily accessible to anyone with a basic command of English.
History
The center was first established in 2007 to provide opportunities for medium and long-term retreats as well as instruction in meditation to the beneral public.
The first 30-day Mahamudra (Nature of Mind) meditation retreat was held in May 2008 with an attendance of twenty practitioners. The first rains retreat (90 days in length) began on May 1, 2009. This retreat is open to anyone.
Facility
The facility consists of one building that contains the meditation hall, kitchen, and three bedrooms. The facility is fully air-conditioned.
There are additional housing options in the neighborhood surrounding the center.
Staff
Michael Gregory Founder and main teacher. Former monk.
Sarah Burrowes Center Manager and teacher.
Thomas Gutherie Teacher and former monk.
Sue Carr Teacher and former nun.
Christian Strachan Teacher and former monk.
Laura Menzer Teacher and long-term retreatant.
Phillip Hedrick Teacher and long-term retreatant.
The teaching staff also travels to the United States and other countries to teach meditation and give Dharma talks.
See also
Karuna