Fantastic the warmest people to help make each individual strong. And the cause is the betterment…read moreof society by promoting World Peace

SGI Buddhism is life changing in a tangible, practical way. It conflicts with no other educational,…read morereligious or philosophical practice. I encourage anyone to try it and see how you feel after. Just a few of the core tenants that I like are: 1. There's no "middle-men" priests involved. It's a self-responsibility practice connecting directly with your own Buddha nature. 2. Everyone is entirely equal. No matter age, gender, class, etc. All are welcome and seen as having the same value. There's no hierarchy. 3. There is a mystic law the permeates everything. And through faith, practice and study of this law, we can raise our life condition to live with absolute happiness and supreme wisdom. 4. It's a practice for the self and others. Including the happiness and well-being of others is imperative. The organizations sole purpose is world peace through individual happiness. If you are at all wanting more joy or support or fulfillment, or even if you simply want a greater sense of peace... whatever the reason, practicing SGI Buddhism is a most profound way to create victory in your life.

I went to the free meditation class two or three times when I still lived in the area. I enjoyed it…read morevery much. The teacher was very nice and there were not too many people but still a good-sized group. It was my first experience with meditation and it left a good impression. I have continued to practice meditation partly due to my experience here. Very good class, moreso because it's free.

As I go to college and learn about meditation; I wanted to try the meditation. I found the business…read morecards in the book store around school. I was excited about this meditation class; it's free of charge and this guy (Paul) has experience with meditation for over 40 years. The meditation process was very clear and precise. You have to know the 7 bases. Once you know the 7 bases you'll experience the feeling of emptiness; it feels like the whole world just disappear. I know that I have a body, but I feel that I do not have a body. I know that there is sound, but I don't hear the sound. I felt relax and focus at the same time. It was a great experience!! After meditation class my mind was full of power. I felt like I can save the world.

My son and I visited on Sunday for open meditation. It was our first time at the center and…read morepracticing meditation. Renee gave us private instruction before we joined the group. Renee is a fantastic teacher. We loved the experience and will be back. I've been practicing at home for five minute segments each day and I'm feeling more present in my life. Yay! Cheryl

CLOSED -- I received this, via email, in response to my query below:…read more Is this location closing permanently, as I've seen reported? If so, when and why? Shambhala L. of Shambhala Meditation Center - Los Angeles Business Owner Hi, We have closed all our locations in Los Angeles but continue to meet online. All programs and classes are currently held online via zoom. We will be sending updates periodically via email. If you would like to be on our mailing list, please sign up here: https://la.shambhala.org/sign-up/ Check our monthly calendar for updated information on online meditation programs and activities: https://la.shambhala.org/monthly-calendar/ We hope to open another location in the future! Los Angeles Shambhala I wonder how much the recent and ongoing controversies surrounding Shambhala had an impact on the organization, as well as the obvious pandemic issues.

This temple was founded over 100 years back by Japanese immigrants and Japanese Americans. This is…read morea historical gem in the valley! Members of the Hongwanji Buddhist temple are welcoming, friendly, and caring including their Reverend (a woman!) who recently retired. Currently we have two amazing assistant ministers during this transition. When I first arrived as a new person attending service with my partner's family, I felt welcomed and supported to learn service rituals which I was not not accustomed to. The best part of this temple are the people. As a collective working together, this multigenerational community make weekly service and member events possible every year. The Dharma here feels relevant to what is happening in the world and one can always join service as a guest without being a member yet, in person, or online. If looking for a non judgmental spiritual community, this is one in the valley.

This is a warm and welcoming community that has become a second home for me. It may seem a bit…read moreintimidating to begin coming, since the congregation is very tight knit, but the people are kind and the minister is incredibly compassionate. There is a weekend discussion group, which is how I first got to know the temple and its members, as well as Sunday services. The reverend's dharma talks (sermons) are always very applicable to daily life and help me try to be more mindful. Members are assigned to a volunteer group and each month the groups rotate in taking responsibilities around the temple (e.g., tidying up, prepping meals for lunch after a special service). It's not compulsory, but volunteering is a way to feel a part of the community and take ownership of the temple. There are also multiple groups for young people and in general, it's a very family friendly space. The temple also has an extensive library with holdings that range from scholarly texts to books for "nightstand" Buddhists to children's books. A Buddhist education committee also sponsors a variety of guest speakers and seminars who provide different perspectives on the dharma. Perhaps the temple is best known in the larger community for the annual Obon festival, held at the adjacent Japanese American Community Center in summertime. It's always a joyous occasion with plenty of food and activities (dancing, taiko drumming, bingo, a Japanese flea market, and other carnival games). During wintertime everyone pitches in for the annual mochi (rice cake) making. While generations of families have built and maintained the temple, nevertheless it really feels welcoming and it's always nice to see the communal spirit.

Very friendly people, and so warm and welcoming! The statues are magnificent! Worth at least 1…read morevisit, the size and details aren't picked up well in the photos. They have a parking lot inside the gates. Don't be shy. Come with your questions because they have plenty of answers.

I have been attending classes here since this Center opened and before it at their previous…read morelocation. They teach how to meditate in a way that gave me a much healthier way of handling life's difficulties. My relationships with family, friends and work colleagues improved immensely. I am much happier and have shed most of the anger I used to have. A peaceful mind is the source of lasting happiness. Kadampa meditation gives us peaceful minds no matter what we encounter. They teach practical skills and techniques we can apply to our busy daily lives.

Thank you for a wonderful workshop! Inspiring teachings,…read moregreat food, new friends & peaceful meditations.

I admit that I wasn't off to a good start because it wasn't until after I signed the contract that…read morethey mentioned I need to make donations. This is unheard of at any gym or legit martial arts studio. The other thing that rubbed me wrong is there is literally no communication for non-disciple students. I showed up one day and they were shooting a commercial so they moved me around and put me in the back which is not where I wanted to be. They should've given advance notice or asked for permission to film students and I wasn't asked. There's a reason for the turnover of staff and students.

From Ventura Blvd, step into this temple. Right away, get transported into the world of ancient and…read morehistoric Shaolin China mixed with little hints of romantic Italy. I started coming to the temple in June of 2021 when things were opening up after COVID. I wasn't looking per se to join a martial arts studio. I was interested in Qi Gong at first to heighten my energy levels, especially after being stuck at home doing weights for exercise during the pandemic. What I found was not only a lot of excitement to learn the inside-out benefits of medical Qi Gong but also an allure towards learning Shaolin principles, secrets and routines. I became a disciple within 3 months and have been learning more ever since. I'm learning my 2nd routine now that I've grown stronger with the Wu Fa (animal) poses. Growth is slow, but if you are patient and follow through, looking back only a year I've learn so much. Also, after 2 years delay due to COVID supply chain issues, we finally got our uniforms this January. Everyone looks great. It's nice to see everyone wearing them at the temple now.

Very peaceful, beautiful place to pray. The people are kind and there's lots of seats.read more

I began chanting in 1996. Since I joined Myohoji, my whole life has changed and it has really…read moreenhanced my view of the world and my life. Great relationships, great job, and a wonderful family are just a few of the amazing benefits I have received by chanting at Myohoji.