BIA offers many areas for quiet contemplation, and the Meditation Hall is certainly no exception. But this is where any similarities cease. 

Upon entering, some may be surprised by an absence of the design details and styling that characterize many of the exhibits and architectural features experienced outside. In contrast, a simple, functional motif predominates. This understated design is purposeful. It helps bring greater attention to the teachers, events, and practices that make the Meditation Hall the heart of BIA’s on-site activities. 

As taught by Buddhadasa Bhikku, Dhamma practice and Dhamma teachings can take many forms. The Meditation Hall offers a venue for them all.

• Dhamma teachers from around the world regularly come to share their wisdom, encouragement, compassion, humor and humility.   

• Mindfulness instruction and practice includes not only formal mediation techniques, but also mind-body interventions and exercises such as Tai Chi and Yoga, as well as those involving, chanting and sound.  

• Dhamma-inspired performance art, music and storytelling, both traditional and contemporary.  

• Counseling and other programs and instruction aimed at furthering peace and well-being for all. 

For those unable to attend in person, many programs are live-streamed and/or available for viewing online at a later date. 

Complementing the dynamism of the programs going on inside, are ever-changing contemporary art and photography exhibits that can be found just outside the Meditation Hall doors.