2020 has proven to be one of the most challenging years in recent memory. Practicing together at the turn of the New Year will provide an extraordinary time for reflection and taking refuge in dharma and community. By taking time to pause and look into our hearts, we can better care for ourselves and those around us with loving attention and wise action. Through deep inquiry we can also clarify our direction for the New Year and beyond.
Schedule (PT):
Bolded segments are group practice times, the others are suggested but optional
December 30
4:45 p.m. Welcome, Overview and Introductions
5:15 – 6:15 Practice
December 31 – January 1
7:30 a.m. Sitting and Walking
9:00 a.m. Instructions and Sitting
10:30 Walking and Sitting
12:00 Lunch or break
1:30 p.m. Sitting
2:15 Mindful Movement
3:00 p.m. Meditation and Q&A
3:45 p.m. Walking and Break
5:15 p.m. Dharma Talk/Meditation
6:15 Break
7:45 Evening Sitting and Walking
January 2
9 a.m. Meditation
9:45 Walking
10 a.m. – 11 a.m. Closing Circle
On December 31 and January 1, participants will have the opportunity to attend either a small group breakout or private meeting with the teachers.
Walking Meditation (or movement meditation): Throughout the retreat we learn to cultivate mindful awareness in all postures: sitting, walking, standing, and lying down. In mindful walking meditation practice, we learn to sustain meditative awareness through movement, and establish continuity of mindfulness in the midst of activity. Walking meditation helps us to bridge the gap between our experiences in seated meditation and daily life. We alternate between sitting and walking meditation to support the establishment of mindfulness and concentration and to balance the factors of energy and calm in our practice. The Buddha invited us to establish mindfulness in all postures. For those who find walking meditation is not possible, alternate forms of mindful movement are suggested.
Eating Meditation: Instructions will be given on how to integrate the process of nourishment and eating as a meditation during retreat for continuity of mindfulness and a deepening of practice. Retreatants are encouraged to bring the same calm, focused attention to eating as is brought to sitting, walking, and other activities. Through reflection on the Buddhist teaching of interdependence, we have the opportunity to slow
down and recognize each bite of food we eat is a result of countless causes and conditions and to appreciate the blessing of mindful nourishment.
Dharma Talks and guided meditations: Each day, the teachers present a different set of teachings that are central to practicing mindfulness and compassion. These teachings can be applied to our own direct experience. Sometimes the talks focus on retreat practice, and sometimes they offer teachings for wise living in the world.
Dana/Generosity: There will also be an opportunity to offer Dana for the teachers and center at the end of the retreat. Thank you for your support!
