Boundless Heart: The Four Immeasurables

The Four Immeasurables—equanimity, loving-kindness, compassion, and empathetic joy—are qualities of the heart that Buddhism teaches us to cultivate without limit or exception. Together, they offer a practical path for meeting ourselves, others, and the world with greater openness, wisdom, and care. In this four-week course, we will explore each immeasurable through teachings, reflection, discussion, and guided meditation, with special emphasis on equanimity, or impartiality. Equanimity is not indifference or emotional distance. It is the steady, spacious mind that allows us to care without being governed by attachment, aversion, or bias. By beginning with equanimity, we create a strong foundation for the other three qualities. We learn to extend kindness beyond those we naturally favor, to remain present with suffering without becoming overwhelmed, and to rejoice in the happiness and good fortune of others without comparison or jealousy. Each week will focus on one of the Four Immeasurables: Equanimity, Loving-kindness, Compassion, and Empathetic joy. These practices are not about manufacturing particular emotions or becoming endlessly agreeable. They help us uncover a more balanced and inclusive way of relating—one that can gradually extend beyond our usual divisions of friend, stranger, and difficult person. No previous experience with Buddhism or meditation is required. Everyone is welcome.

Recordings emailed to class registrants, available for 30 days.