What is the Mind?

Everybody welcome.

You’re invited to join us for a short course with four classes exploring the nature and function of the mind.

For many, the mind is a fascinating enigma. While some scientists and psychologists believe it’s simply the brain or a function of it, Buddha’s teachings offer a different perspective. He describes the mind as a formless continuum, which can be understood scientifically with logic and also through experience in meditation and daily life. This short course explores the mind’s nature and guides participants in meditating on the nature of mind, helping to foster insight, clarity, and mental freedom.

Classes include an initial relaxation meditation exercise, a talk, a guided meditation, and conclude with discussion and questions with the teacher.

We encourage you to book early if you plan to attend classes, as seating is limited.

Class topics

11 March, 2026
Introduction to the course | If the mind isn’t the brain, what is it?

18 March, 2026
Understanding the nature of mind | Meditation on the clarity of the mind

25 March, 2026
Exploring levels of mind | Meditation on the very subtle mind located at the heart

01 April, 2026
How does the mind work? | Conclusions

The teacher

Gen Kelsang Jangchub is an English Buddhist monk and Resident Teacher at Akanishta Kadampa Buddhist Centre in Cheltenham. He first became interested in Buddhism as a teenager, after university he ordained as a monk and has studied for many years under the guidance of meditation master and internationally acclaimed author Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche. He presents Buddha's teachings in a clear and practical way, making Buddha's teachings and the practice of meditation accessible to everyone.

For those who wish to explore the topic in more depth, the course is based on the book How to Understand the Mind by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso. The course also references other books, including Clear Light of Bliss, Mahamudra Tantra and The Oral Instructions of Mahamudra. How to understand the Mind is available as a paperback at classes for £17.95.

Course type: In-person

Day & time: Wednesdays | 6:30 - 7;45 pm

Course dates: 11 March - 01 April, 2026

Tickets: You can book for a single class or the series. We encourage you to book as soon as possible as seating is limited.

Fees: £10 per class or 4 classes for £32.00 | FREE for monthly members

Discounts: Young persons under 25 and full-time students get a further 30+% discount on all classes including the 4 class special offer. Use the discount code at check out U25 or STUDENT.

Venue: Oxford Quaker Meeting House, 43 St Giles', Oxford, OX1 3LW.

Accessibility: Please note the classes are offered in a room on the first floor. The building does not have a lift.

Event organiser: Akanishta Kadampa Buddhist Centre, 59 Whaddon Road, Cheltenham, GL52 5NE

Contact details: hello@meditateinoxford.org | Tel 01242 269 807 | Mob & WhatsApp 07788 945 212

Charitable / non-profit status: Akanishta Centre is a UK registered charity, number 1125213.

Cancellation policy: If you cancel 7 days in advance we offer a full refund on all tickets. You can action this through Ticket Tailor using the 'Manage Tickets' button at the top of events listings and on booking confirmation emails. If you cancel up to 3 days before we offer 50% refund or a replacement class within 90 days (depending on availability). Less than 3 days we are unable to offer a refund or replacement class. To request a partial refund or to rebook, please email bookings@meditationincheltenham.org.uk