Common Ground Meditation Center, at 2700 East 26th Street in Minneapolis, is a hub for mindfulness practice. Founded in 1993 by Mark Nunberg and Wynn Fricke, it's grown into a large, vibrant community. The center is rooted in the insight meditation tradition, emphasizing compassion and wisdom.

The center started small in 1993 in a storefront that was also Mark and Wynn's home. They collaborated with the Twin Cities Vipassana Collective to offer meditation and yoga. Mark began teaching a weekly practice group and an intro to mindfulness meditation. These are still key parts of Common Ground's offerings.

By 1999, the community's needs had grown. Mark left his teaching job to work full-time at the center. In 2002, the center formed a Board of Directors and gained nonprofit status as a Theravada Buddhist Meditation Center. In 2006, they moved to a new location, an old diner transformed into a meditation center with the community's help.

Today, Common Ground is a place of learning and practice for all. It offers daily meditation sessions, classes, and retreats. The center welcomes everyone, regardless of background, to learn and practice Zen Buddhist meditation. It's committed to ethical living and Buddhist teachings.

For newcomers, Common Ground suggests starting with an intro class. It includes meditation instruction and how Zen relates to life. Zazen, or seated Zen, is their main meditation type. It's practiced in silence and is a foundational part of the center's practice.

Guiding teachers like Shelly Graf and Mark Nunberg bring depth to the center. Shelly, who has been practicing since 2003, focuses on integrating Buddha's teachings into daily life. Mark, the co-founder, has been teaching since 1990. He's deeply inspired by Buddha's teachings and has studied with various teachers. Gail, another teacher, has been with Common Ground since 2002. She's led the Intro to Mindfulness Meditation workshop for many years.

Key Takeaways

• Official Website: https://commongroundmeditation.org/
• Contact: (612) 722-8260
• Location: 2700 East 26th Street, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55406
  

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The Meditation Center in Minneapolis, situated at 631 University Ave NE, stands out as a premier destination for meditation enthusiasts. This center has a long history, almost 50 years. It stands in the northeast Minneapolis artists' district. People from all walks of life come here to find peace and learn new skills.

At this center, there are many meditation styles to choose from. With over 20 different types, there's something for everyone. From beginners to advanced learners, the center caters to all. This wide range makes meditation interesting and accessible to all who visit.

The instructors at The Meditation Center are another reason for its high standing. They have years of experience in meditation and yoga. This expertise makes learning at the center unique and enriching. For instance, Swami Ritivan Bharati, the spiritual director, has over forty years of experience in yoga and meditation. Or Swami Ma Radha Bharati, with her academic background in philosophy and years of meditation practice, adds a unique depth to her teachings.

Besides, Pandit Dabral, a Sanskrit scholar with a master’s degree in Sanskrit literature and a Ph.D. in Indian philosophy, brings over 15 years of experience in the Himalayan Yoga Tradition. The center also features Stephen (Stoma) Parker, an experienced yoga teacher and licensed psychologist. Moreover, Michael Smith, with over 36 years of teaching experience, focuses on the yoga lifestyle and holistic health.

The Meditation Center is a peaceful place. It's designed to help you relax and focus. The rooms are bright and calm. They have comfortable seating and quality mats for meditation. This environment helps people feel at ease and focus better on their practice.

Community is important at the center. They host monthly events that bring people together. These events are not just about meditation. They help build a strong community where people can share and grow together. The center also takes part in local wellness events. This shows its commitment to spreading calm and mindfulness in Minneapolis.

The center is easy to reach. It's near a bus stop, making it convenient for everyone. Their website, www.themeditationcenter.org, offers many resources. You can find online classes and guides there. The center ensures that everyone can join in and learn, no matter where they are.

Key Takeaways

• Official Website: https://themeditationcenter.org/
• Contact: (612) 379-2386
• Location: 631 University Ave NE, Minneapolis, MN 55413
  

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The Minnesota Zen Meditation Center, located at 3343 East Bde Maka Ska Parkway in Minneapolis, is a unique place for Zen Buddhist meditation. Celebrating 50 years, it invites everyone interested in Zen practice. The center's mission is to offer deep and quiet joy through meditation.

At this center, you can learn about Zen Buddhist meditation in various ways. They offer daily sitting meditation, weekly classes, and monthly intensive retreats. The center focuses on celebrating both shared experiences and differences. It welcomes everyone regardless of their background.

For newcomers, the center suggests starting with the Introduction to Zen Meditation class. This class includes meditation instruction and insights into how Zen relates to daily life. It's a good first step for anyone new to meditation or the center.

The primary meditation practiced here is Zazen or seated Zen. This meditation is silent, with no guidance, and is simple yet profound. The center offers Zazen sessions daily, making it easy for people to join and practice regularly. Their schedule is open to the public by donation for all who wish to participate.

The center’s curriculum supports the exploration of Buddhist teachings. It aims to help people understand the fundamental questions of life. Their approach is structured yet supportive, promoting meditation, compassion, and joyful living.

The guiding teachers at the center are experienced and dedicated. Ted O'Toole, the Guiding Teacher, has been interested in Buddhism since 1973. He began his formal practice in 1992 and has been part of the Minnesota Zen Meditation Center since 1993. He frequently leads practice periods and meditation retreats. Assistant Guiding Teacher Ben Connelly started Zen practice at the center in 2001. He teaches mindfulness in various contexts and focuses on intersectional liberation, racial justice, and climate justice.

Key Takeaways

• Official Website: https://www.mnzencenter.org/
• Contact: (612) 822-5313
• Location: 3343 East Bde Maka Ska Parkway, Minneapolis, MN 55408
  

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Yoga Sanctuary in Minneapolis, located at 100 W 46th St, is a unique yoga center. It's a non-profit studio focusing on making yoga accessible to everyone. Yoga Sanctuary offers classes for all body types and experiences. They work to include everyone, especially those affected by systemic racism. Reduced rates and scholarships are part of their commitment to inclusivity.

The studio stands out for its blend of yoga with holistic wellness. They offer workshops that combine yoga philosophy, modern science, Ayurveda, and energy medicine. This approach helps deepen the understanding of human experience. It makes Yoga Sanctuary a special place for those looking to explore beyond the physical aspects of yoga.

For those aspiring to teach yoga, Yoga Sanctuary provides a comprehensive 230-hour Teacher Training program. This program, certified by Yoga Alliance, is designed to help students see their potential as teachers. It balances practical teaching skills with deep wisdom, nurturing future yoga instructors in a holistic manner.

Yoga Sanctuary is a place for body, mind, and spirit. They host various events and workshops. These include gratitude yoga practices and de-stress yoga sessions. They also offer sound healing sessions. These events show their commitment to holistic well-being.

The Compassion Fund is a crucial aspect of Yoga Sanctuary's community work. This fund supports making yoga accessible to everyone in the community. It reflects the studio's dedication to using yoga as a tool for unity and healing. Donations to this fund help ensure that yoga is available to all, regardless of their financial situation.

Yoga Sanctuary believes in the transformative power of yoga in a community setting. They emphasize that inner peace comes from within. Yet, they also focus on the importance of a supportive community for practicing yoga.

Key Takeaways

• Official Website: https://www.yogasanctuarympls.com/
• Contact: (612) 567-9642
• Location: 100 W 46th St, Minneapolis, MN
  

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Healing Elements, nestled at 2290 Como Avenue in St. Paul, MN, is a sanctuary where wellness and personal transformation converge. This center stands out in Minneapolis for its commitment to nurturing both the body and spirit.

The center provides unlimited access to all hourly classes, with exclusive member pricing on select workshops and education. That makes it a haven for continuous learning and self-improvement. The classes are designed to foster authenticity, accessibility, and self-connection. Therefore, it is ideal for anyone looking to explore yoga and fitness in a more profound way.

One of the unique features of Healing Elements is its focus on energy work. The center's body workers specialize in directing and encouraging energy flow throughout the body. This practice aims to positively impact not only the physical aspects of health but also emotional well-being. By addressing the whole person, these services offer a comprehensive approach to healing.

Moreover, Healing Elements places a strong emphasis on plant medicine. This practice, harmonizing with nature, employs a non-invasive and gentle approach. It's particularly effective for general well-being, vibrant health, and the regulation of the immune and nervous system. This method showcases the center's commitment to holistic health practices that are both gentle and effective.

The instructors and therapists at Healing Elements are key to its uniqueness. Anna and Neil Hultgren, the owners, bring their passion for health to their yoga and fitness classes. Kylie M, a dedicated yoga and fitness instructor, emphasizes creating safe, accessible, and enjoyable classes for all skill levels. LeAnn S, a massage therapist, combines various techniques to promote relaxation and healing.

Clients' experiences at Healing Elements reflect the center's warm and welcoming atmosphere. Testimonials often highlight the friendly staff, the comforting environment, and the personalized attention each client receives. This environment is conducive to relaxation and healing.

Key Takeaways:

• Official Website: https://www.healingelementswellness.com/
• Contact: (651) 348-6216
• Location: 2290 Como Avenue, St. Paul, MN 55108.
  

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The Yoga Center Retreat in Minneapolis stands out as a top destination for those seeking a comprehensive yoga experience. Founded in 2018 by Jennifer Gray, this center has quickly become the go-to place for yoga enthusiasts in the Minneapolis and St. Paul metro areas. Located at 4212 Park Glen Rd in Saint Louis Park, it offers a welcoming and supportive environment for both beginners and seasoned practitioners.

At the core of its offerings are high-quality yoga classes. These classes cater to a range of interests and skill levels. For beginners, there are specially designed classes that provide a safe space to learn and grow. For more experienced yogis, the center offers a variety of styles, such as Hatha, vinyasa, slow flow, gentle yoga, prenatal yoga, adaptive yoga, Iyengar, yin yoga, restorative, and meditation. This diversity ensures that everyone finds a style that resonates with their personal practice.

In addition to regular classes, the Yoga Center Retreat hosts in-depth workshops. These 2- or 3-hour sessions delve into aspects of yoga, meditation, Ayurveda, philosophy, and spirituality. These workshops are perfect for those looking to deepen their understanding of yoga and its related disciplines.

One of the center's most notable offerings is its teacher training program. This program is an opportunity for individuals to transform their passion for yoga into a teaching career. The training is conducted by some of Minnesota's most experienced yoga instructors. Participants receive a comprehensive education in yoga history, philosophy, anatomy, and teaching methodologies. The program covers various yoga styles and traditions, enabling trainees to find and develop their unique teaching voices.

The Yoga Center Retreat is more than just a yoga studio; it's a community where individuals come together to learn, grow, and share their yoga journey. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced yogi, the center provides an inclusive and nurturing environment for all.

Key Takeaways:

• Official Website: https://theyogacenterretreat.com
• Contact: (952) 582-1271
• Location: 4212 Park Glen Rd, Saint Louis Park, MN 55416
  

Directions

Greenway Yoga in Minneapolis is a unique yoga studio. Located at 2510 Nicollet Ave S #108, it's like a hidden gem behind a bookshelf. This spot blends old yoga wisdom with modern art. It's close to Uptown Minneapolis and the Greenway Bike path, making it easy to reach.

Their mission? To make yoga available for everyone. They call this their Green Yoga Movement. It's about helping the economy, the community, and the planet. Event funds at Greenway Yoga are divided to sustain the studio and support environmental and community causes. Each yoga session at Greenway Yoga is not only a journey towards personal well-being but also a contribution to the welfare of the community.

Their focus on sustainability aligns with the United Nations' definition: seek charities that contribute to sustainable development in economic, environmental, and social areas. This holistic approach ensures that their practices and teachings support a balanced and sustainable future.

Their classes cater to all levels and are held in a judgment-free, candlelit environment. They offer a variety of styles, including Vinyasa Flow, which builds the mind-body connection, and Yin & Restore, which focuses on deep tissue and joint flexibility. The studio also hosts unique events like Kirtan and Sound Baths for relaxation and meditation. Additionally, they hold Craft Nights, combining art and mindfulness.

The studio offers a diverse range of classes led by a team of passionate instructors. Phong Cao, the founder and head teacher, started teaching as an apprentice at 15. His classes are known for their passion, creativity, and eclectic sequencing. They blend poetry, songs, and yoga.

Other instructors like Sara Karimi, Saoirse Dungan, and Eden bring their unique backgrounds in dance, competitive swimming, and sound healing to their yoga teaching. All of them create varied and enriching experiences for students.

Key Takeaways:

• Official Website: https://www.greenwayyoga.com/
• Contact: (763) 283-6970
• Location: 2510 Nicollet Ave S, #108, Minneapolis, MN 55404
  

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The Shambhala Meditation Center of Minneapolis, located at 2931 Grand Street NE, is an integral part of the city's meditation landscape. Rooted in Buddhist teachings, the center offers a fresh approach to spiritual growth. It's part of a global network of meditation centers established by Chögyam Trungpa Rinpoche, which reflects a commitment to contemplative practices.

The center's offerings include meditation classes, Buddhist studies, and programs in the Shambhala tradition. They provide a welcoming space for beginners and experienced practitioners alike. Sundays are dedicated to group meditation, where newcomers are encouraged and offered instruction. Monday evenings feature open sitting practice and discussions, fostering a sense of community and connection among participants.

Their programs encompass a range of topics and practices. These include foundational Buddhist teachings, meditation groups for the LGBTQIA2S+ community, introductory meditation courses, and cultural celebrations such as Children's Day and Shambhala Day. The center also hosts qigong classes and various retreats to deepen meditation practice and understanding of Shambhala teachings. Additionally, the center organizes special sessions on Tibetan Buddhist practices like tonglen and invites senior teachers for day-long programs.

The name "Shambhala" refers to a legendary kingdom known for peace and prosperity. It provides inspiration for many Tibetan and Asian peoples. This legend underscores the center's dedication to creating a peaceful and compassionate community. Shambhala Meditation Center is known for its serene environment and inclusive spiritual teachings. It is a place for personal and communal growth.

The instructors at Shambhala Meditation Center are a key part of its offerings. They guide students through various meditation practices, helping them deepen their understanding of Buddhist principles and the Shambhala tradition. The center's instructors are dedicated to creating a supportive and inclusive environment.

Key Takeaways:

• Official Website: https://minneapolis.shambhala.org/
• Contact: (612) 208-6439
• Location: 2931 Grand Street NE, Minneapolis, MN 55418
  

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Nokomis Yoga, nestled in South Minneapolis by Lake Nokomis, stands out as an inviting yoga studio for all levels. Located at 2722 East 50th Street, it offers a welcoming atmosphere where no prior registration is needed to join any class. With a focus on personal care and attention, Nokomis Yoga ensures that each student is supported by their highly trained and experienced instructors.

The studio offers a diverse range of yoga classes suitable for various skill levels and interests. Each instructor brings their unique style and approach. They create a rich and varied yoga experience for attendees. The classes are designed to cater to different needs, from gentle to moderate intensity. In particular, they integrate aspects of yoga philosophy and Vinyasa flow.

One of their notable offerings is the "Healthy Happy Hour Yoga," a class that focuses on resetting the mind and body through asanas and breathwork. This class meets in person on Tuesdays and welcomes drop-ins.

Nokomis Yoga is committed to providing a safe and hygienic environment, with all instructors fully vaccinated. They encourage students to bring their own mats for in-studio classes, emphasizing the importance of personal safety and comfort. The studio's boutique and independent nature ensures small class sizes. It allows for personalized attention and a more intimate yoga experience.

The studio's location in the Shops at Nokomis Beach adds to its charm, providing a serene backdrop for yoga practice. They maintain a flexible payment system, with class prices varying by instructor and the option to pay via cash, check, or credit card.

Key Takeaways:

• Official Website: https://www.nokomisyoga.com/
• Contact: (612) 770-2467
• Location: 2722 East 50th Street, Minneapolis, MN 55417
  

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Yess Yoga, nestled in the heart of Minneapolis at 105 E 26th St, MN, is a yoga studio that stands out for its inclusive and community-centric ethos. Recognized as the best in Minnesota by MN Monthly, it's a space where everyone, regardless of their background, is warmly welcomed.

The studio's unique approach to yoga, termed "Intuitive Yoga," reflects its commitment to fostering a light-hearted, authentic connection among individuals and with the universe. This philosophy underpins every class and event, inviting people from all walks of life to explore yoga in a nurturing environment.

The studio's class offerings are diverse, reflecting the uniqueness of its instructors. Classes include Vinyasa, Yin, Restorative, Curvy, Kundalini, and Slow Flow, all taught with a focus on justice and community. These classes are designed to cater to different preferences and skill levels, all taught with a community-centric approach.

Yess Yoga also features a comprehensive 200 RYT teacher training program, incorporating styles like Vinyasa, Yin, and Restorative Yoga. This program provides an in-depth understanding of yoga teaching methodologies and practices.

Workshops at Yess Yoga range from body-based movements to yoga theory and astrology, aimed at expanding and enriching the yoga practice of attendees. These workshops are part of the studio's commitment to offering holistic yoga experiences that go beyond physical postures.

The new studio location, just steps from the original site, has been a member of the Eat Street Neighborhood for over eleven years. This ADA-accessible building welcomes everyone, ensuring an inclusive environment for yoga practice. The studio's classes and offerings are designed to support and care for its students, with small class sizes allowing for personalized attention.

Key Takeaways:

• Official Website: https://www.yessyogastudio.com/
• Contact: (507) 429-4374
• Location: 105 E 26th St, Minneapolis, MN 55404
  

Directions