Not About Being Good

The Art of Buddhist Ethics

Led by Ksantikara & Maitrishura

Starts Wed 10 June / 6-week course / 7-9.15pm

Course description

our state of mind isn't fixed

Do you ever feel like you know what’s “right”, yet your daily life doesn't always reflect it? Most of us recoil at being told what to do, preferring to think we have it all figured out. Luckily, Buddhist ethics aren't about conforming to conventions, following rules, or "being good" to earn points.

The core insight of Buddhism is simple: our state of mind isn't fixed. We are constantly shaping it through our actions of body, speech, and mind. Buddhist ethics empower us to shape our future and change our consciousness.

On this six-week course, we’ll move beyond "shoulds" and "musts" to explore how acting with awareness, kindness, and wisdom allows us - and those around us - to truly flourish.

You will receive Subhadramati’s book, Not About Being Good, as part of the course.

Hear from Darsavini, Ksantikara & Maitrishura

Learn what we will be exploring

Why do a course?

Learning together, with more depth and continuity

Taking part in a course offers something that can be difficult to create alone: structure, consistency, and a sense of steady progress. Instead of approaching Buddhist ethics and meditation sporadically, a course provides a clear framework that supports regular practice and deeper understanding, helping insights become part of everyday life.

Just as importantly, learning alongside others brings connection, encouragement, and fresh perspectives. Sharing the journey with a group makes the experience more engaging and meaningful, supporting both personal growth and a deeper appreciation of Buddhist principles.

Reserve your place
What You Need to Know

Common questions

How can I get the most out of the course?
Come every week. Motivation often follows action so you’ll usually find that once you’re here, you’re glad you came! Aim to get here 15 minutes before we start. This gives you time to settle in and relax before the session begins.
What if I can’t make every session?
Don't worry - it’s fine, and common, to miss a session or two. We’ll usually send follow-up emails recapping the content you missed. If you know you’re going to be away, just let us know and we’ll look forward to seeing you the following week.
What is the cost?
We ask for a £25 deposit + £120 suggested donation for the course. You will receive Subhadramati’s book, Not About Being Good, as part of the course.
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We can join your Slack and you’ll have access to us while we’re together.
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Don’t like Slack? We like Discord too! Add us there if you want.
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Evening Programme

6.50pm
Doors Open
7pm
Introduction & Guided Meditation
7.30pm
Short talk & Discussion
7.55pm
Tea break
8.15pm
Main Teaching & Plenary
9pm
Ending Meditation

Frequently Asked questions

How can I get the most out of the course?
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Consistency is key: Come every week. Motivation often follows action so you’ll usually find that once you’re here, you’re glad you came!Arrive early: Aim to get here 15 minutes before we start. This gives you time to settle in and relax before the session begins.

What if I can’t make every session? 
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Don't worry - it’s fine, and common, to miss a session or two. We’ll usually send follow-up emails recapping the content you missed. If you know you’re going to be away, just let us know and we’ll look forward to seeing you the following week.

Will there be any food and drink?
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Tea and biscuits are served during breaks. We provide a wide range of teas along with oat and soya milk. There is also tap water. If you’re attending a day-long event (a Festival day or Day retreat for example), you’re invited to bring a vegan lunch to share as part of a "pot-luck" buffet.

What should I wear?
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There is no dress code, just wear what you feel comfortable in. If you’re attending a meditation class, loose-fitting trousers are a good choice as they make it much easier to sit on a cushion or chair for longer periods.

Do I need to take my shoes off?
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We ask everyone to remove their shoes before entering our shrine rooms or yoga studio. You can leave your shoes in the designated areas. (You might want to bring a pair of socks if your feet get cold!)

What if I can’t afford it? 
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While many courses are "Give What You Can," others have a set fee. If the low-income rate is still out of reach, please get in touch. We want our courses to be accessible to all and can often offer a place for an amount that works for you. It helps if you can give us a rough idea of what you can contribute when you get in touch.

Is it ok to just come once?
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Absolutely! You are welcome to drop-in and see if it feels right for you. 

How do I get to the Buddhist Centre?
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We are a 5–10 minute walk from three stations: Highbury & Islington, Holloway Road, and Drayton Park. Bus routes 21, 43, 263, and 393 stop nearby. We are also on the C38 Cycleway, with plenty of bike racks close by on Fieldway Crescent. There is no on-site parking, and nearby streets are mostly resident-only.

Is the Buddhist Centre accessible? 
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While we have an internal lift to the shrine rooms and yoga studio, please be aware there are four steep steps at our main street-level entrance without a ramp or lift. On the ground floor, you’ll find an accessible toilet. Please get in touch if you’d like to discuss your specific access needs.