All three of the themes discussed in the first year of practical philosophy, Wisdom, Happiness and Love are explored in a fresh and entirely practical way. Many of the great traditions from East and West are explored to see what they can teach us today and how they can be practically applied to help change our lives for the better.

The emphasis of the course is to experiment in our own lives, trying out simple exercises, testing out what has been presented and discussing our findings with the group.

The practical techniques given to students are empowering, revealing our habitual responses to life and at the same time, helping us to connect with inner stillness, knowledge and contentment. Over the course of the first year these practices form a sound introduction to meditation, which is usually offered in year two. Those wishing to take up meditation earlier however, can usually be accommodated. For more details about the meditation, which is offered through a sister organisation please visit : http://www.schoolofmeditation.org.

• Life gains more meaning
• Relationships at work and home improve
• Communication becomes clearer
• Efficiency and energy levels increase
• Better able to deal with the ups and downs of life
• Become calmer and happier
• Find more control over the mind
• Feel more connected

1. Introducing Philosophy and its relevance today
2. Importance of Self Knowledge, stillness and depth of Being
3. Different levels of awareness. The spirit of enquiry
4. Changing states of mind. Acting with wisdom and justice
5. The gift of Reason - everybody's birthright
6. A practical exploration of levels of consciousness
7. Who am I? Differing states of attention
8. What is the Creation? The three primary qualities
9. Our real essence and relationship to the Creation
10. Know thyself and find freedom

1. True happiness. How is happiness acquired and lost
2. Being in tune with Ones own nature
3. The Vedic principle : 'May all be happy'
4. The eternal present and passing time
5. Marsilio Ficino, Immortality. Rejoice in the present
6. The difference between pleasure and pain
7. Natural Values : happiness, knowledge, fullness of life, service, generosity, beauty and love
8. Detachment, wealth, truth, self respect, efficiency, duty and work
9. Freedom from the grip of passing time. Importance of speech
10. Identification. The four principles of work
11. Being at one with the Universe

1. What is love? How is it gained and lost?
2. Love governed by wisdom or attachment
3. Love is the natural in between. Constancy
4. Directing love from the changeable to the true essence
5. Love thy neighbour as thyself
6. Review. Connecting the mind with the senses
7. Love as the motive force. Unity
8. Sacrificial love and sentimental love
9. The relationship between law and love
10. Love and work. Constancy in word and deed
11. Love guided by wisdom. Summary

Leeds, Bradford, Huddersfield, Doncaster, York, Nottingham, Lincoln, Sheffield

£60 Full
£50 Conc.
£30 Students
Prices may vary locally.                    

To book your place on a course:
Ring: 0800 515061
E-mail: info@philosophyinpractice.co.uk

Ring: 0800 515061
E-mail: info@philosophyinpractice.co.uk
Download our brochure: Click here to download the practical philosophy brochure ...