Tuesday, October 22
The Path to Inner Mastery
Meditation has been greatly misunderstood here in the west during the past few decades. The point of meditation is not simply to relax, or to escape from the internal or external difficulties of life, but rather, to understand the nature of the human mind and release the mind from all mental struggles. Naturally, as we sit still with our eyes closed, a sense of relaxation and even relief can happen. However, there is a path to follow to take the next steps toward true inner freedom and liberation from all negative and unwholesome qualities in the mind. This path can be thought of as an education system.
How to Prepare
Arrive with an empty stomach, avoiding food, coffee, or tea to begin the day (just water!)
Wear white or lightly colored, loose-fitting clothing without patterns or wording. Avoid tight-fitting clothing and spandex. Attendees should bring two changes of clothing for the retreat.
9am-11am
Introduction from your instructor followed by practicing of various physical postures and exercises which facilitate the ease of the seated meditation posture for long periods of time.
2pm-5pm
Lecture, Q & A, and instructions on how to sit and breathe properly during formal meditation.
7pm-8pm
One hour silent meditation by the fireplace.