Q and A WEST Vancouver's Thomas Kefferputz is set to lead an eightweek meditation series at the Ferry Building Gallery.
The class, experiential and using the Tibetan A-Khrid and mantra meditations, is entitled Meditation: The Path to Well-Being and will be held Thursdays, Feb. 16-April 5 at 7: 30 p.m.
The North Shore News got in touch with Kefferputz, 59, to find out more. North Shore News: How did you come to be a meditation practitioner? Kefferputz: Many years ago I used to be involved in the property business. The daily stress of competition and pressure in this environment had an increasing negative effect on my overall health and well-being and made me look for an alternative method to help me deal with stress. It is my belief that the mind and emotions affect one's behavior and ultimately one's health. Meditation and different forms of yoga caught my attention and ultimately changed my life positively on all levels. North Shore News: What are the benefits of meditation? Kefferputz: I believe that in this day and age, many people suffer the consequences of our fast-paced society, where stress, worries and anxiety seem to be the main ingredients of our everyday lives. It tears families apart, creates children with disorders, amplifies addictive behavior and dependence on substances of which the results are short-term benefits with negative long-term consequences.
Meditation helps to relax the body and calm the mind. It reduces stress-related problems and disease, increases concentration and strengthens the body's immune system. Regular practice of meditation improves self-awareness, promotes emotional healing and brings peace of mind. It improves the overall quality of life. North Shore News: What sort of difference has meditation had on your life? Kefferputz: As I mentioned before, it made all the difference in my life.
After a few years I've actually left the business world behind and started focusing on what truly is important to me. Through teaching meditation it is my aim to guide and support students in getting to know and understand their mind and emotions, therefore making better and healthier choices, which will result in a more balanced relationship with themselves as well as with the people they are in a relationship with - equaling a happier and healthier life!
North Shore News: What can you tell me about your upcoming course at the Ferry Building Gallery?
Kefferputz: This course is for all people who are interested in the above: Beginner, advanced, young and old!
North Shore News: What would you say to encourage those to attend who've never practised meditation before?
Kefferputz: I can only say give it a try - you can only find out for yourself. And believe me, it's all about yourself! North Shore News: Is there anything you'd like to add?
Kefferputz: As my teacher, His Holiness Lungtok Tenpai'I Nyima, always says: "Practice, practice, practice . . . and you will know."
. . .
To register ($90), or for more information, phone 604-925-7270 or visit www. ferrybuildinggallery.com.
