Buddhism all originates from the teachings Buddha Shakyamuni gave 2,500 years ago. But Buddha said it was important that his teachings adapt to suit the different cultures and societies they found themselves in; so, while the essence of the teachings remains the same, the presentation changes over time.

When the founder of modern Kadampa Buddhism, Geshe Kelsang Gyatso, first came to the West in 1977, he saw that a new presentation was needed to suit the people of the modern world. With the advice of his own teacher, he revitalised this ancient wisdom so that it fits perfectly with busy modern life.

Modern Buddhism doesn’t ask us to separate ourselves from our normal daily activities – rather, it presents us with methods to transform everything we do into part of a meaningful spiritual life. It is perfect for modern people because it helps us to develop different ways of looking at the world around us so that we can take a measure of peace and stillness into our hectic lives.