This event is the in-person version of a hybrid class series which will take place both in-person and online. To register for the online version, please click here.
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An Exploration of the Eightfold Path
In this six-week series, we will offer a pragmatic vision of the Eightfold Path as a lifestyle. Over the course of the program, we will deconstruct the elements of this system and arrange them in a way that organizes the philosophical, contemplative, and ethical dimensions of the path into a practice that is both accessible and relevant to modern life.
Week 1: Opening Up the Path
Using the Four Noble Truths as a practice, we will explore how to live more independently from cycles of reactivity and craving, opening us to a different style of living. We’ll also examine teachings on conditioned arising and karma.
Week 2: Contemplative Practices to Support the Lifestyle
In Week 2, we will have a “mini retreat” to introduce the contemplative practices most relevant to supporting a Buddhist lifestyle.
Week 3: Intentions and Motivations
We will explore the themes of intention and motivation, their influence on speech and action, and the ways they shape the results of our conduct (karma). Traditional teachings on Wise Intention—including restraint, goodwill, and non-harming—will be offered.
Week 4: Wise Communication
We will examine different models of Wise Speech and connect them to everyday life and modern digital communication.
Week 5: Wise Conduct
We will connect the teachings on intention to ethical conduct and career through the framework of the Eightfold Path and the precepts.
Week 6: Wise Effort and Two Types of Equanimity
Wise Effort may be one of the least emphasized factors of the Eightfold Path, but it is also one of the most practical and useful teachings in the entire system (and one of your teacher’s all-time favorites). We will also connect this teaching to earlier lessons on equanimity.
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Schedule: This 6-week class series meets on Thursdays, 6:30pm to 8:30pm PT, from July 9 to August 13, 2026.
July 9, 16, 23 and 30
August 6 and 13
Suggested donation: $240
