Barcelona for Buddhists

Buddhism is a religion, a practice, a way of life in which you admit peace, kindness, and wisdom into your being. The practice of meditation and self-awareness extracts fear, attachment, and negativity from your life. 

It is a way of life that we have become more aware of in the recent years. As our pace of life has accelerated, our need to slow down and self-reflect has become more imminent. You find this true as more centers of Buddhism have emerged; even more in cosmopolitan cities.

Though Buddhism dates back to 525 B.C, through the years, various philosophies and techniques have come forth. Each varying school of thought focusing on a different value, each catering to 300 million Buddhists followers worldwide. All schools focus on the core idea- bringing more peace, kindness, love, and wisdom to this world. They all present greater benefits to our own mind, body, and soul, as well as our neighbors. 

“What you think, you become. What you feel, you attract. What you imagine, you create.” –Buddha

Today, Barcelona is home to many Buddhist centers. Below you will find a variety of resources that will direct and guide you toward the type of practice you are in search of. 

Resource No. 1

Buddhanet is run by Buddha Dharma Education Association Inc. It is an international education and information network website. You can find different studies, e-books, and even locate your local Buddhist Center.

Resource No. 2

The Coordinator Catalana D’entitats Budistes was established in 2007. According to their website it was created, “in a response to the need to coordinate and create synergies between Buddhist organizations and centers in Catalonia and Balearic Islands.” 

Within the website, you will find various activities, member information, and collaboration details. Most importantly, they hold an extensive directory which includes various centers and their corresponding websites. 

Resource No. 3

If these lists seem a bit overwhelming and you are the type of person who would like a more personal suggestion, I would highly recommend Zen-Deshimaru. When first coming to live in Barcelona in 2011, I was placed with a host family. My house mom attended this center and invited me to go with her. I had never been to a Buddhist center, and I did not know what to expect. It was a warm, and tight-knit community. All open to supporting one another and the center. They guided me every step of the way, and I left with a weight I never noticed off my shoulders.  I found the experience to be life changing.  Click here to visit their Facebook page. 

Resource No. 4

If you have never practiced Buddhism, there is a group on MeetUp that offers a great introductory course. Click here to find out when there next meet up is.  

If you would like more information on the history and various practices of Buddhism please visit AboutBuddhism.org.