Pathway
Begin Practicing
Everyday ethics, a few short optional exercises, and how to find qualified teachers and communities.
- Author
- Dhutanga.org Editorial Team
- Review
- Doctrinal review pending
- Level
- Newcomer
- Tradition
- Shared introductory concepts
- Published
- Last reviewed
Start with everyday ethics
Buddhist practice traditionally begins with generosity and ethical conduct. Lay Buddhists often undertake the five precepts: to refrain from killing, from taking what is not given, from sexual misconduct, from false speech and from intoxicants that cloud the mind.
Short optional exercises
These exercises are optional and simple. If meditation brings up distress, stop and seek support from a qualified teacher or health professional.
- Sit comfortably for five minutes and notice the breath, gently returning when the mind wanders.
- Before a meal, pause to reflect on where the food came from.
- Once a day, give something — time, attention or a small gift — without expecting anything back.
- In the evening, recall one kind action from the day.