Meditation in Orange County
Meditation is the process of bringing yourself into the present moment
Something that is all the more helpful for us as busy individuals to be able to stay grounded and have a sure shot to access moments of peace throughout the day. By now, we’ve heard of all the benefits of meditation. I for one am completely sold and believe it’s as magical as every study makes it out to be. That being said, as a busy mom and a worker among workers, it’s quite the challenge (sometimes nearly impossible) to consistently incorporate it into my routine.
The good news is, there are many avenues of meditation and no right or wrong way of going about it to receive the benefits it provides. Myself as well as some of my busy friends, have discovered that group meditation has been a way to take an hour of self-care, share space with like-minded individuals and stay dedicated to the practice. There’s an energy present when meditating with a group that can’t be simulated.
Even if it’s just showing up for a meditation session once a month, it helps to inspire incorporating individual time for meditation during the week. We are fortunate to live where we do because we have so many accessible meditation resources in Orange County. Below are some recommended, helpful, local spaces for beginning or expanding upon your meditation practice.
Dr. Robert Puff
Dr. Puff is an author, psychologist, and meditation expert who hosts a weekly group where he provides detailed instructions on how to practice meditation followed by a 30-minute meditation session. This group is a “base camp” for starting meditation. No charge, drop-ins welcome. Wednesdays, 7-8pm.
2436 W. Coast Hwy, Ste 103
Newport Beach, CA 92663
(714) 337-4889
Mahamudra Meditation Center
Each mindfulness meditation community class is two hours long and is broken down into several sections. All beliefs are welcome to attend and learn. The class begins with an introduction to the topic to be covered. Topics include karma, compassion, remembering kindness and other Buddhist fundamental teachings. Following the introduction is a guided 10-minute breathing meditation followed by a 50-minute commentary on the actual meditation practice, then 15 minutes guided meditation on the topic that was covered, a 15-minute intra-class discussion and closing with 15 minutes for questions and answers. Each class is self-contained and can be enjoyed on a drop-in basis. No registration is required. $12 per class.
Mondays in Santa Ana 7:15 pm
Tuesdays in San Clemente 7:15 pm
Thursdays in Santa Ana and Newport Beach 7:15 pm
Inner Space Yoga and Meditation Studio
This peaceful, boutique studio offers 30-minute weekday lunchtime meditation sessions as well as meditative yoga classes. Noon meditation drop-in fee is $9 per class.
607 E Santa Ana Blvd
Santa Ana CA, 92701
UC Irvine Health Hospital
UC Irvine has regularly scheduled “meditation for health” classes and workshops offered throughout the year. Registration is required. $20 fee per class.
UC Irvine Health Hospital
101 The City Drive South
Conference Room 3005
Orange, CA 92868
Infinite You Meditation Studio
Private sessions, programs, and workshops, as well as half-day retreats, are offered at this beautiful new space in Costa Mesa hosted by Lionela Torriero. Free guided meditations are also available on her website.
234 E 17th St, Ste 113
Costa Mesa, CA 92627
TM Orange County
Transcendental Meditation doesn’t focus on breathing or chanting, like other forms of meditation. Instead, it encourages a restful state of mind beyond thinking. Free introductory talks take place multiple times during the month. There are 4 meditation centers in Orange County located in Newport Beach, Orange, Laguna Beach and Laguna Woods, see the calendar on the website to reserve a space.