Jhana, the state of profound meditative calm, starts with a skillful mind. Through reflection and mindfulness of breathing practice, we can find that skillful mind by attending to and cultivating the five jhana factors, the wholesome qualities described as application of mind, exploration, joy, happiness, and unification.
When the jhana factors are present, the mind feels unburdened, tranquil, and happy, and we can find greater ease and well-being both on the cushion and in our lives.
On Tuesday, June 30, at 1:00 p.m. ET, join scholar Sarah Shaw for a donation-based workshop to learn about recognizing the skillful mind, why it’s the basis of jhana, and how to start developing the jhana factors in your daily life as well as in formal meditation.
Workshop participants will receive a special discount on Developing the Jhana Factors in Daily Life, Shaw’s new Tricycle online course, which begins July 6, 2026.
Speakers
Sarah Shaw
Dr. Sarah Shaw is a faculty member and tutor at the University of Oxford and a visiting contemplative mentor at Brown University.
Sarah first encountered meditation as a student. After initially finding meditation difficult, it eventually clicked. She feels grateful to have found the technique of samatha breathing mindfulness and a home in the Samatha Trust community.
Sarah is the author of Breathing Mindfulness: Discovering the Riches at the Heart of the Buddhist Path, The Art of Listening: A Guide to the Early Teachings of Buddhism, and Mindfulness: Where It Comes From and What It Means.
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DETAILS
- Date: June 30, 2026
- Time: 1–2 p.m. ET
- Format: Live on Zoom
- Price: By Donation