What are virtual Zoom meditation groups?
Virtual Zoom meditation groups are gatherings of individuals who come together online via the Zoom video conferencing platform to engage in meditation practices. These groups typically have a designated leader or facilitator who guides participants through various meditation techniques, such as mindfulness meditation, guided visualization, breathing exercises, or loving-kindness meditation… just to name a few options.
Participants join the Zoom meeting from their own locations, often from the comfort of their homes, using their computers, tablets, or smartphones. The facilitator may start the session with some instructions or a brief introduction, followed by a period of silent meditation or guided practices. There may also be opportunities for participants to share their experiences or ask questions after the meditation session.
I participate in a few different Buddhist Zoom meditation groups. The featured photo is a group zoom meditation group I joined to take The Five Mindfulness Trainings in June of 2020. You can see what a group might look like. This was a pretty large group but groups vary in size sometimes it is just 2 people. Sometimes for special event, it might be hundreds of people. Typically Zoom groups I’ve attended have been about 6 to 18 people.
I have led many Buddhist and secular Zoom meditation meetings over the last 4 years. I have been kicking around starting a weekly online meditation group to build the 3 Jewels Sangha community. If this is something you would be interested in, let me know in the comments and we’ll keep you posted on days/times.
Now let’s answer the main question –
Why would I want to join virtual Zoom meditation groups?
The above photo was me leading a small group. The photo was during our dialogue time to connect and reflect on the meditation we just did. Joining a virtual Zoom meditation group can offer several benefits:
1. Community and Connection:
Meditation can sometimes feel like a solitary practice, but joining a group can create a sense of community and connection with others who share similar interests and goals. This sense of belonging can provide support, encouragement, and accountability in your meditation practice.
In the Buddhist world, a community is called Sangha and is one of the 3 Jewels and the basis for this site. The positive energy that can be generated by meditating together is powerful and different from meditating alone. I like to add Dharma Talks where the group not only meditates together but studies some Buddhist philosophy, or positive psychology for finding better ways to live. This is a powerful way to build connection and community and a safe space to share ideas.
2. Guidance and Instruction:
Many Zoom meditation groups are led by experienced teachers or facilitators who can offer guidance, instruction, and feedback to help you deepen your practice. This can be particularly helpful if you’re new to meditation or looking to refine your techniques.
3. Variety of Practices:
Zoom meditation groups often offer a variety of meditation styles and techniques, allowing you to explore different approaches and find what works best for you. Whether you’re interested in mindfulness meditation, loving-kindness meditation, breathwork, or other practices, you can likely find a group that aligns with your preferences.
I like to mix up the meditation styles to expose people to different types of meditations so that people can find what works best for them. This also helps me and the group keep a beginner’s mind and stay curious in our practice.
4. Accountability and Motivation:
Knowing that you have a group session scheduled can provide motivation to prioritize your meditation practice and stick to a regular routine. Additionally, participating in group meditation can help you stay accountable to your goals and commitments. When I first joined my local in-person Sangha they had Saturday meetings (and still do). Then they added Wednesday meetings so I joined both. I loved it so much, that I wanted daily Sangha meetings. I would love to help build this so people can get served when they have time or flexible days. Group meditation groups really help you build a solid and fun practice.
5. Reduced Distractions:
While meditating at home alone can sometimes be challenging due to distractions, joining a virtual Zoom meditation group can create a dedicated space and time for your practice, free from interruptions and distractions. However, since you are still at home, there may still be distractions. I know when my kids are home and I join a meeting, I can still sometimes hear the kids but I will say if you have a solid group and a good leader it is easy to let go of those outside distractions.
6. Sense of Unity and Support:
Especially during times of stress or uncertainty, participating in group meditation can foster a sense of unity and support as you collectively navigate challenges and cultivate resilience through meditation.
Overall, joining virtual Zoom meditation groups can enhance your meditation practice by providing community, guidance, variety, accountability, and support. Meditation is such an important practice for so many and having a group of like-minded friends just makes building a stronger meditation practice that much easier. If you would like to join me in meditating share your thoughts in the comments.
If you are curious about how I lead meditation watch this video I did for World Peace Day. This is not done with a group but is very similar to how I lead virtual zoom meditation groups. I did this video via my secular mindfulness/wellness company – Hellagood Life.