The core of insight meditation is the practice of mindfulness, that quality of awareness that sees without judgment. Sitting and walking meditation, the first steps in formal practice, become the foundation and continuous inspiration for meeting all aspects of life with a greater openness and willingness to learn. The ordinary activities of retreat life become a part of the practice because the challenges they offer help us develop the art of mindful living.
There will be an optional period of yoga offered each day. Mindfulness Yoga - inspired by the tradition of T.K.V. Desikachar of India - emphasizes the coordination of awareness, breath and movement. It prepares us for sitting meditation by bringing more vividness into the breathing process and more energy and ease into the body and mind. We will learn to enter fully into each posture so that it becomes an authentic dharma practice. Please bring a yoga mat.
Retreat participants are required to have sat at least two week-long courses at IMS. Please document this when registering. |