Online Meditation Classes: How to Join Bayside’s Live Sessions

Online meditation can make it easier to attend a class when travel or a busy day makes getting to the center difficult. The practical questions matter: Will someone guide you? How do you join? And where should you begin if you have never meditated before?

At Bayside Meditation, you can learn with a guide online and continue with live group practice after enrollment. Here is how to get started and prepare a comfortable place to participate.

Begin with a free online introduction

Your first step is a free, 45-minute, one-to-one introduction. You will meet a guide, hear how the method works, try a short meditation, and have time for questions. Choose the online option when you book. No previous meditation experience is needed.

For a fuller introduction to your first appointment, read what to expect in your first meditation class.

What you will practice

Bayside Meditation teaches a guided, step-by-step method of reflecting on the mind you have accumulated and learning to let go. In this teaching, “true mind” means your original nature beneath the identity and worldview built through experience. Letting go does not mean erasing memories.

Your guide explains the practice and helps you work through questions as you learn. You can explore the Bayside Meditation method before your introduction.

Set up a comfortable place to join

Bayside’s live online practice uses Zoom. Before your appointment, check the joining details provided for your session. If you cannot find them or are unsure how to connect, contact the center before your start time.

• Choose a quiet spot where you can hear the guide and are less likely to be interrupted.

• Use a comfortable chair. You do not need to sit cross-legged or buy special meditation equipment.

• Check your internet connection and audio. Headphones are optional if they help you hear clearly.

• Keep your device charged and positioned so you can follow the session without holding it.

• Silence unrelated notifications and allow the full appointment time.

• Check the time zone, especially if you are joining from outside New York.

A simple setup is enough. If something about the seating, sound, or practice feels uncomfortable, tell your guide and ask to adjust or pause.

Continuing after the introduction

If you decide to enroll, your first three to five regular sessions are one-to-one so you can learn with personal guidance. Regular classes last one hour and include a conversation or briefing, guided practice, and a wrap-up.

As you become comfortable with the method, you can continue with live guided group sessions. Group sessions are for members. Additional one-to-one guidance can be arranged by separate appointment.

See personal and group meditation classes for the current format. You can ask your guide how online and in-person practice could fit your routine.

Finding and booking a regular session

Members use UniverseMind, the members-only app, to check available group sessions and reserve a place. For individual guidance, arrange a separate appointment by text with your guide.

The class schedule lists times in New York time (ET). Check current session and holiday updates before joining. Choosing a time you can comfortably keep is a useful starting point for regular practice.

Questions about online meditation

Can I begin if my mind feels busy?

Yes. You can bring questions, uncertainty, and a wandering mind to your introduction. Tell your guide when an instruction is unclear so you can learn the next step together.

Can I join online practice from the center?

Yes. Members who prefer to practice away from home can attend an online group session at the Bayside center. Check the arrangements with your guide before coming.

What does it cost to continue?

The introduction is free. Ongoing classes are available through membership. Review the current membership options and ask any questions about the terms before choosing a plan.

Meet a guide and try the practice

Start with a free, 45-minute online introduction. It is a chance to understand the method, try a short practice, and decide whether you would like to continue.

Book a Free Online Intro