Mangala Meditation Gathering
What is Mangala?
Mangala (मङ्गल ) is a classical Buddhist and Indic term that means “blessing,” “spiritual auspiciousness,” or “wholesome good fortune.” Derived from both Pāli (maṅgala) and Sanskrit (maṅgala), the word carries deep spiritual resonance across Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain traditions.
Though simple in sound, Mangala evokes a sense of inner clarity, purity, and sacred presence.
In early Buddhist texts, the Maṅgala Sutta outlines the conditions for true well-being and spiritual happiness—such as humility, mindfulness, and wise friendship.
In early Buddhist texts, the Maṅgala Sutta outlines the conditions for true well-being and spiritual happiness—such as humility, mindfulness, and wise friendship.
In naming this gathering “Mangala,” we aspire to create a meeting where practitioners from diverse backgrounds may experience inner blessings through silence, meditation, and compassionate connection.
What do we practice?
At Mangala Meditation Gathering, we begin with practices that gently awaken the heart and still the mind. Rooted in both compassion and awareness, our foundational meditations include:
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Loving-kindness Meditation – a unique form of embodied loving-kindness (metta) and compassion (karuṇā) practice that softly nurtures inner healing and emotional balance. Inspired by both Buddhist psychology and somatic mindfulness, this practice has been developed through years of compassionate engagement in the field of healing.
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Breath Awareness Meditation – a steady cultivation of mindfulness of breathing (ānāpānasati), helping practitioners return to the simplicity of the present moment with clarity and serenity.
These two practices form the foundation for beginners or those new to meditation.
Loving-kindness Meditation and Breath Awareness are not merely introductory techniques—they are profound and transformative in themselves, capable of opening the path to true and lasting happiness.
However, for those who are especially interested in Korean culture and the spiritual heritage of Korean Buddhism, we also offer a gateway into the world of Ganhwa Seon (看話禪)—the pinnacle of traditional Seon meditation. This advanced path involves direct contemplation of a hwadu (話頭, “critical phrase”)—a question beyond intellect—that leads the practitioner to sudden insight into one’s original nature. https://slashpage.com/angukseoncenter
Of course, experienced practitioners are always warmly invited to sit alongside and deepen their own practice.
We also welcome them to share insights from their own meditation journey and, where appropriate, to support and inspire fellow practitioners through the spirit of mutual learning and compassionate guidance.
When and How do we gather?
We gather in both virtual and in-person formats to make our practice accessible and grounded in community.
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Weekdays (Tuesdays & Fridays, 06:00-07:00):
We meet online via Zoom for guided meditation and shared silence. These sessions provide a steady rhythm for practice during the week, offering a gentle return to mindfulness amidst the flow of daily life.
We meet online via Zoom for guided meditation and shared silence. These sessions provide a steady rhythm for practice during the week, offering a gentle return to mindfulness amidst the flow of daily life.
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Sundays (13:00-15:00):
We plan to meet in person at a local temple near the military base. These gatherings will offer a peaceful space for deeper connection, quiet sitting, and heartfelt Dharma exchange.
We plan to meet in person at a local temple near the military base. These gatherings will offer a peaceful space for deeper connection, quiet sitting, and heartfelt Dharma exchange.
🕊️ Please note: Specific details regarding time, location, and structure of the Sunday gatherings are still being discussed and will be updated soon.