From yoga studios on every streetcorner to the popularity of apps like Headspace: over the past decades meditation and mindfulness have gone mainstream. However, their Buddhist roots have become almost forgotten in this movement. What is the origin of mindfulness? Are there downsides? And is there a ‘right’ way to meditate?
- Date
- Thursday 22 Oct 2026, 15:30 - 16:45
- Type
- Workshop
- Spoken Language
- English
- Location
Yoga Room Erasmus Sports - Hatta Building
During The Truth About Mindfulness we will dive into this questions with Henk Blezer: From its Buddhist origins to its current secular popularity. Mindfulness used to be a distinctly counter cultural affair. By now it has become popular even in formal business settings and its benefits are widely touted. What is lost in the move from religion to lifestyle activity?
After the lecture, there will be a workshop meditation given by Sayalay Chandadhika, Abbess and Spiritual Minister of the Buddha Dhita Nunnery in Lelystad, putting some of the ideas into practice. Spots are limited, so sign up quickly!
Dr. Henk Blezer is University Lecturer Buddhist Studies at Leiden University trained in Indian, Buddhist and Tibetan Studies.
Please note that participation is your own choice and entirely your own responsibility; if there would be any medical counter-indications to the practice of mindfulness and insight meditation, you are advised not to participate or in any case consult with your physician or therapist first.
- More information
Date: Thursday 22 October
Time: 15:30 – 16:45 hrs
Location: Yoga room, Hatta Building, Campus WoudesteinTicket Information:
Entrance: Free, reservations highly recommended. EUR students & staff only
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