In Sufi’s experience there are other subtle centres of consciousness besides the mind of which the heart is the most important. The heart is the centre of illuminations and can perceive the Truth directly. For this to happen however there is a condition, the heart must be awakened .To achieve this we need the assistance of a special kind of Meditation, fundamentally unlike the meditation of other systems. We do not seek to work through concentrating the energy of the physical body at a single point as is done elsewhere. In our order the meaning of meditation is to detach oneself from worldly activity and for some time devote one’s attention towards God.

After the preparatory 10 lessons the student can choose to progress by embracing a way of life based on Islamic principles and the Sunna, the example of the Prophet Muhammad (P.B.U.H.) Some students can take years to finish the preliminary lessons, while others progress quickly depending on their state when coming to Sufism and their devotion to the practices.

The preliminary practices begin with meditation on the heart where an intention (niyyat) is made, and then the seeker sits quietly for 40 to 45 minutes. In our order there are no special positions or postures when sitting, but if you sit patiently the Blessings of the Divine are visited on the seeker. Some spiritual and physical benefits may be felt straight away, for instance you may experience an increase in patience and tolerance and feel contentment, and develop personal insight and understanding as direct effects of doing the practices.

Weekly meetings where small groups of students sit in meditation also help you to progress more rapidly. Seekers can experience a profound and sustaining connection to the Divine through the regular practice of meditation and recitations.