I have often had great trouble meditating. I have been to introductory classes at the Shambalah and Insight meditation centers in New York City. I went and spoke to Korean Buddhists and a Chinese nun when I was living in Maryland. And always, I struggled with the simple instructions to breathe, and watch my thoughts.

Dharma Punx was founded by Noah Levine, and the New York chapter provides free, weekly meditation sessions, followed by a lecture, on Tuesday nights downtown. The combination of humor, practicality, and cool, makes these lectures so very different than others I've tried before. For one thing, I haven't been surrounded by so many tattoos outside of a punk rock club. This unique mix of people makes it that much more welcoming and motivating. And the easy-to-access lectures of Josh and Craig, many of which are featured and downloadable online. Dharma Punx really changed my attitude towards meditation, and I am happy to say I was able to sit longer in a session at Dharma Punx (30 minutes) than I've ever been able to before.

If you live in New York, or are planning a visit, this is definitely worth a stop. If not, check out the lectures online, or Noah Levine's book, "Dharma Punx"