Tuesday, April 21, 2026

New Series on the Hindrances

This week, Tess Wise will introduce a new series on the Hindrances (nīvaraṇa), generally understood as mental factors that disturb concentration and hinder progress on the path. In the suttas, the hindrances are compared to water that is stirred, heated, covered with algae, or blown by wind: when we are hindered, achieving meditative absorption is impossible, and reality is distorted. In this talk, Tess will offer a basic introduction to the hindrances before turning to the first, kāmacchanda: the pull toward pleasant experience.

Upcoming Schedule
April 28: On the Tibetan Compassion Practice of Tonglen (sending & taking) (Wendy Farrow)
May 5: Series on Hindrances–Aversion (Amanda Espinoza)
May 12: Series on Hindrances–Sloth/Torpor (Joan Wilkins)
May 19: Series on Hindrances–Restlessness/Worry (Mark Rabil)
May 26: Series on Hindrances–Doubt (Bosco Farr)

ANNOUNCEMENTS

(1) The Monthly Practice Discussion Group meets on the last Tuesday of each month (next gathering April 28)
On the last Tuesday of each month, we host a peer-led Practice Discussion Group where members can share their experiences with Practice. We’ll share joys, frustrations, and questions about our practice to check in and support each other. All are welcome, whether they have a dedicated home practice, an occasional one, or none at all. 

(2) Walking Meditation in Miller Park–Fridays at Noon
Bosco will also be leading a walking meditation practice at Miller Park in Winston-Salem (400 Leisure Lane) on Fridays at Noon. Bosco will arrive at 11:45 and start a normal-paced mindful walk at Noon for 30 minutes. Anyone is welcome to join. For further information, contact Bosco via email at devonmfarr@gmail.com.

(3) WSDC Retreat Schedule (2026-29)
The Winston-Salem Dharma Community will continue to host periodic retreats for members and non-members alike. Here is a preliminary list of retreats planned for 2026 and 2027. We will provide additional details and registration schedules as these dates approach. But for now, you can “pencil them in” if interested. All of these retreats will take place at St. Francis Springs Prayer Center in Stoneville, NC.

• October 4-9, 2026 (five nights)–Winnie Nazarko, teacher.
• February 21-25, 2027 (four nights)–Matthew Brensilver, teacher
• October 5-10, 2027 (five nights)–Teacher TBA
• January 30 -February 3, 2028 (four nights)–Teacher TBA
• January 10-14, 2029 (four nights)–Matthew Brensilver, Teacher

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SEE OUR WEBSITE FOR ADDITIONAL ANNOUNCEMENTS, INFORMATION, AND LINKS TO PAST TALKS & HANDOUTS   (http://wsdharmacommunity.org/)

In addition to general information about our group, the website offers an easy-to-reference calendar, event listings, online resources, contact information, and an easy way to sign up for this weekly newsletter. Feel free to share this link with friends or anyone interested in learning more about meditation or Buddhism.