From The Founder's Desk: The Mind House Manifesto
Founding Mind House has been more than a pet project gone wild, but rather a chance to redefine how meditation and mindfulness classes are run in London. The concept first came to me as yoga and meditation student. Having taken countless meditation classes across the city, I learned from my own experiences that I wanted something different. I love meditation; I believe in the practice. But I didn't like the way it was being delivered. So I started Mind House with these thoughts in the forefront of my mind – accessibility, priority, exposure, experience, and service. From them, the rules of house and our signature Mind House classes were born...
MIND HOUSE MANIFESTO
1 // Meditation is for everyone.
We love a good collective sit-in. That's why we run pop-up classes throughout London, so that you have the chance to take one near you. Our classes are secular, affordable, and open to all levels of practitioners. There is no such thing as a good or bad meditator – all people are equal and welcome to sit and breathe with us.
2 // Mental fitness is just as important as physical fitness.
We believe (along with modern science) that practicing meditation/mindfulness breeds better health and happiness. And a healthy mindset offers us true sustainability. If your body is a temple, than your brain is the prized chalice inside.
3 // Meditation is not a one-size-fits-all sweater.
We know that meditation is a deeply personal practice, and what works for one person does not always work for all. That's why we don't institute strict programmes or meditative prescriptions, because there is no true formula to follow. Instead, we teach various meditation methods, so you can discover what works best for you.
4 // Building a meditation nest is best.
We want your practice to feel good. Meditation is not always easy, but a comfortable body makes the experience more pleasant. That's why we provide you with soft and cozy furnishings, from warm fleece blankets to cushions that improve your posture. FYI, sheepskin blankets were cited as used in ancient Vedic texts. We use them too, as a nod to the history of the practice; Only ours are faux-fur.
5 // No shoes. No phone. Yes service.
We don't like to be strict, but we want you fully relax. Unplugging from digital life and kicking off your Oxford brogues is the key to unwinding and surrendering to the practice. Trust us to turn off once in a while. Your mind and body will thank you.
Unplugging applies to our teachers too. We NEVER take pictures of our students during class, unless permission was granted in advance at ticket sales. This is a strong value we uphold as we believe that meditation is a personal practice and we want you to feel safe to explore your inner space. Rest assured, full-stop.
