How to Choose a Meditation Teacher

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Thinking about working with a meditation teacher? It’s a powerful step—but how do you choose the right one?

In this episode, I offer a framework based on the three Yanas (vehicles) of Buddhist practice. Each path reflects a different view of meditation—and can help you clarify the kind of guidance you need.

Three Yanas, Three Teaching Styles

1. Hinayana – The Foundational Path
Best if you're starting out and need structure. Look for a teacher who emphasizes:

• Simplicity and discipline
• Ethical foundation
• Building a consistent practice
  
  
  

2. Mahayana – The Compassionate Path
Ideal if you're feeling more open to others and want your practice to reflect that. Seek a teacher who guides:

• The Four Immeasurables: love, compassion, joy, equanimity
• How to connect practice with service and daily life
  
  
  

3. Vajrayana – The Transformational Path
For those ready to work with everything—including chaos—as part of the path. A Vajrayana teacher will focus on:

• Sudden awakening
• Meeting life directly, without avoidance
• Transforming emotions into insight

Vajrayana is my home. I teach meditation not to calm down, but to wake up—to all of it: beauty, difficulty, uncertainty, and joy.

If you’re looking for a teacher, ask yourself:

• Do I need grounding and structure?
• Am I drawn to compassion and connection?
• Do I want to use every part of life as practice?

Clarity about your needs will help you find the right guide.

A previous episode of this podcast (about the Four Noble Truths) was mentioned. You can listen to Episode 13 here. 

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Produced by Citizens of Sound

Music by: Derek O'Brien

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