Courses & Programs

Structured paths to develop & deepen your practice in community.

I offer a mix of foundational courses for those new to meditation as well as explorations for seasoned practitioners. My approach integrates Buddhist philosophy with Western psychology, helping to make meditation both deeply traditional and highly practical.

Emphasis on both on-the-cushion formal meditation and off-the-cushion integration is a cornerstone of all programs — bringing mindfulness, compassion and wisdom into daily life.

Participants can expect to find collaborations with other co-facilitators who offer different perspectives to balance out our overall approach in our programming.

Each course offers tiered pricing and BIPOC discounts help ensure accessibility.

Upcoming Courses & Programs

Featured
Introduction to Meditation Practice
Jul 24
Introduction to Meditation Practice

In this session, you will be given a broad overview of many different types of meditation practice. We will then focus on learning how to practice mindfulness meditation through direct experience and discussion. By the end of the session, participants will have an understanding of how to begin (or refresh) meditation practice, how to apply mindfulness to the rest of life, and how to maintain a regular habit.

You’ll also learn how mindfulness supports emotional well-being, nervous system regulation, and greater connection to self and others—from both Buddhist and psychological perspectives.

Whether you’re brand new or returning to the cushion after a break, this is a welcoming space to begin (or begin again).

Mindfulness Meditation for Daily Life
Sep 8
Mindfulness Meditation for Daily Life

In this two-session mini-course, you’ll learn the core principles of mindfulness meditation and how to bring presence and awareness into your daily life.

Each session includes guided meditation, simple instruction, and open discussion. We’ll explore how to set an intention for your practice, find a posture that works for your body, and establish a routine you can actually stick with.

You’ll also learn how mindfulness supports emotional well-being, nervous system regulation, and greater connection to self and others—from both Buddhist and psychological perspectives.

Whether you’re brand new or returning to the cushion after a break, this is a welcoming space to begin (or begin again).

Fall Meditation Course: Cultivating Mindfulness, Compassion, and Insight
Sep 22
Fall Meditation Course: Cultivating Mindfulness, Compassion, and Insight

This course offers a practical, holistic, and grounded approach to meditation.

We’ll begin with mindfulness and concentration practices that help develop clarity, steadiness, and presence of mind. From there, we’ll move into heart-based practices that support compassion and emotional connection. After a short break mid-course, we’ll close with four sessions focused on insight—learning to see more clearly into the nature of mind and experience.

Each session includes guided practice, practical instruction, and space for reflection and group discussion. Along the way, we’ll weave together perspectives from Western psychology and traditional Buddhist philosophy, in a way that’s accessible and personally meaningful.

  • I very much enjoyed the class and miss having that on my Mondays. I've been pretty consistent with my meditation but this helped deepen it. I liked getting walked through a lot of major ideas and practices all at once. It helped me put things in context. I enjoyed the detours into western psychology because the meetpoint between that and the Buddhist/Eastern concept of mind, etc. is very interesting to me as two very different approaches to the challenges of life. I could have gone for more of that but that may not be for everyone. And overall I liked the way you handled the class!

    Dan

  • Noel is a compassionate, direct and attuned healing guide and psychotherapist. His knowledge of Dharma and mindfulness, as well as deep training in theory and body-based practices allow him to meet me where I am at, respond thoughtfully, and hold the space for me to arrive at my own wisdom. With his support I have thrived through some very dark times.

    E., Yoga Teacher, Reiki Practitioner

  • -" with warmth, humor and practical wisdom, Noel makes meditation and Buddhist insights approachable for true beginners. His introductory classes were just what I needed to get started on the path to mindfulness."

    Paula, Chicago

  • I first met Noel Coakley at a music festival where he was conducting guided meditation sessions. Since then I have participated in several of his on-line meditation courses. In a heaving sea of information (and misinformation) and 24/7 cultural and sensory input, Noel effectively teaches us how to seek (and hopefully find) that calm and open place we each have within ourselves to better help us to get on in our tumultuous world. He is a very kind, warm and egalitarian being. His teachings are very practical, understandable and free of any off-putting vibe or jargon. In his classes, we're all open, free and supported by the community that Noel fosters. I look forward to more of Noel's presence and teachings.

    Karl, Retired veterinarian, husband of 40 years

  • Noel's presence is calm, centered, supportive and non-judgemental - a perfect combination for those new to the practice as well as long-time devotees.

    Robert, Acupuncturist

  • These programs were truly great. They were thoughtfully organized, well presented, and interactive in a very comfortable way. Noel is a wonderful teacher and relates easily to a broad range of people and explains the concepts behind Buddhist meditation in a very tangible way. I have really benefited from my new practice and plan to continue.

    Course Participant

  • I’ve been working with Noel for the better part of a decade and have found his insights, guidance and wisdom truly transformative both in navigating my meditation practice as well as my life as a whole.

    Robert, Writer

Safety, Respect, and Shared Responsibility

At Wake Up Sleepy Buddha, we’re committed to creating a space where meditation, healing, and connection can unfold with care and integrity. Everyone deserves to participate in this work without fear of harm, coercion, or misuse of power.

We’re aware of the harm that has happened—and continues to happen—in spiritual and therapeutic communities when power goes unchecked. We do not take lightly the responsibility that comes with holding space for others, especially in roles that involve authority or influence. Our intention is to lead with humility, transparency, and shared accountability.

As a collaborative that isn’t tied to a single lineage or hierarchy, we’ve chosen a structure that supports open dialogue, mutual respect, and collective care. This is a living process. We are learning, unlearning, and growing—together.

Discrimination, harassment, and abuse—whether physical, emotional, sexual, spiritual, or psychological—have no place in our spaces. We strive to welcome and support people of all races, genders, sexualities, ages, abilities, and backgrounds.

Most of all, we want this to be a place where you feel safe, respected, and connected. If there’s anything we can do to support that, please don’t hesitate to reach out.