We've built this web site, and the extended platform it's now part of, to reflect the kinds of activities that go on already at Triratna Buddhist Centres around the world, and to help you extend your practice in them using the internet in a mindful way. It can really help to just connect with others who share your interest in the Dharma. And we hope that if you can't attend a physical Buddhist Centre then these spaces will help you participate in communal practice with others and feel part of a supportive community. Here's what you can take part in on our platform:
1. Daily meditations online and a range of live Dharma classes, events and Home Retreats. Whether you're new to the community or super experienced, we hope you'll find something here to support your interest in Buddhism and go deeper with your personal practice!
2. Our blogs are public spaces that belong to any Triratna Buddhist Centre or institution. They are usually run by a local team and are always visible so anyone can view their posts (talks, events, pictures, etc.). They have an 'info' page with key information and highlights. Or try starting with 'latest'! And if you join the site, you can also ‘+ follow’ any project that inspires you. Then we'll notify you in your my sangha section (and by email if you like) whenever a new post is made there. You can also 'take part in the conversation' on any post (if the author enables it).
3. Groups are more participatory, specifically focused contexts (eg. for a particular interest or study group) and are usually visible under the 'groups' sub-menu on any Blog page. We've made most groups private by default, which means you need to click ‘+ join’ in the green bar (on the big header picture) in order to take part.
Once your application has been approved by the group’s owner or team, you'll be able to take a full part in it. Not only can you 'take part in the conversation' by commenting on any group post, you can also make your own contributions. Give it a try, click + post something...
The green posting bar has all your posting options. You can add pictures (+ pictures), videos from YouTube, Vimeo, Instagram and Facebook (+ video), talks from Free Buddhist Audio (+ talk), or just a normal words-and-pictures post (+ blog). You can also embed other content from Instagram, Soundcloud and Audioboom, and upload a wide range of files and documents (all under + resources). And, of course, whenever anyone else posts to the space we'll let you know.