How do we embrace needed change and move towards new possibilities from a place of contentment? What intentions do we allow to arise when we cultivate a calm, clear mind, and a peaceful, loving heart? How do we accept what is, while steadily moving in the direction of our own well-being and a collective well being for all of life that acknowledges the truth of interdependence, the understanding that we’re not separate?
Most of us have goals, and the New Year is often a time of self-improvement. Our mindfulness and Dharma practice invites us into another kind of exploration, however, that is not based on “improving”, but on moving towards our deeper aspirations or intentions from a place of acceptance, presence with what is, and attention to the way we bring these goals and aspirations to fruition.
Through mindfulness, Insight, and lovingkindness practices along with inquiry we will explore our relationship to these questions as we move towards awakening on the path. We will also draw on elements of Phillip Moffitt’s secular Skillful Change work. There will be periods of silent and guided sitting meditation, walking meditation, journaling suggestions and Dharma talks to support the development of your practice. Together, we will join in community for deep listening to our own hearts as we turn towards the possibility of deep renewal for the New Year ahead.
Participants are encouraged to continue practicing in the evenings at home if possible to strengthen their continuity of mindfulness for the full retreat experience, as this is a non-residential online retreat.
Opening Evening Schedule Jan 8, 2021
5:00 – 7:00pm Welcome, Opening Meditation and Retreat Orientation
Saturday, Jan 9, 2021 + Sunday, Jan 10, 2021 Sample Schedule (please note,
schedule may shift slightly. Updated schedules will be sent to all prior to the
opening of the retreat)
7:00 – 7:30 Optional morning sit
9:00 – 9:45 Opening Guided meditation with instruction
9:45 – 10:15 Walking meditation
10:15 – 10:45 Sitting meditation
10:45 – 11:15 Walking meditation
11:15 – 12:00 sitting meditation
12:00 – 12:30 walking meditation
12:30 – 1:00 Dharma talk
1:00 – 1:15 Q and A + Mindful Eating instructions
1:15 – 2:45 lunch
2:45 – 3:15 sit
3:15 – 3:45 walk
3:45 – 4:15 sit
4:15 – 4:45 walk
4:45 – 5:30 Guided Metta meditation
5:30 – 7 meal break
7:00 – 7:30 optional evening sit
7:30 – evening rest or further self practice
Testimonials from previous retreats with Celeste:
“Celeste offered from her heart and personal experiences to illuminate paths of practice. Her embodiment of trauma sensitive mindfulness has transformed my own imagining of what is possible with the practice of mindfulness.”
“The connectivity between the teachers and fellow retreat attendees was a surprising moment of delight on this retreat. I felt the Zoom environment, management of the schedule elements, and the energy during the community segments were easy to feel as if I were participating in community. Surprising but felt.”
“I was extremely satisfied with Celeste’s teachings – she is kind, clear, and conscious. InsightLA programming has changed my relationship to myself, meditation and the community around me.”
