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Mountains, rivers and the earth itself
are the part of one. Clear mind is transparent, all existence is visible through it. Mind darkened by delusion of self Sees nothing but itself.
Han Shan
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C h ' a n M e d i t a t i o n R e t r e a t s Meditation retreats represent the very core of Chan practice. They create an opportunity to extend the limits of our meditative experience, and they are often the only true opportunity when we can meet ourselves, collect ourselves, establish a contact with our body and emotions, let go of unnecessary tension and perceive our life from a healthier and wiser perspective. They represent an intense form of practice taking place in special conditions and under strict rules, helping us to collect and calm otherwise distracted and restless mind and to "turn the light inwards" in an attempt to recognise our true nature. |
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Retreat has several aspects to it – retreat from ordinary life and usual habits, retreat from our immediate environment and conditions present at the retreat itself, and finally retreat from ourselves. In other words we should retreat from thoughts dealing with the past and future and place our mind into the reality of the present moment. It is the only way in which we can experience those deeper layers of our being otherwise veiled by our discriminative mind. Deeply transforming, the experience of Chan retreat is necessary in any serious following of the Path.
Meditation Day - Meditation day is a gentle introduction to the method and spirit of Chan retreat for beginners or a relaxed sitting for experienced practitioners. In addition to sitting, we share lunch and work, creating an atmosphere of mutual help and support that is essential to every spiritual practice. Meditation day is open to people who have taken the beginner's meditation classes and have an established mediation practice. Several-day Chan meditation retreats - These retreats provide extended practice of meditation to serious practitioners who want to deepen their experience. The day begins at four in the morning and ends at 10 in the evening. It includes 14 periods of sitting meditation, yoga exercises, practice of mindful work, Dharma talk, an interview with a teacher, morning and evening service. Several-day retreats are aimed at people who have taken the beginner's meditation classes and introductory retreat, and have regularly practiced meditation for at least six months. Seven-day retreats are considered very important, and are a traditional frame for Chan retreats. Seven days make a well-rounded cycle during which it is possible to weaken old unwholesome habits and get well trained in those that are beneficial. Effects of such a retreat are long lasting and very encouraging. Also, because our minds tend to be slothful and bodies unaccustomed to sitting, we usually spend first days of a retreat adapting to new conditions. Any breakthrough to new layers of absorption is possible only thereafter. For that reason, seven-day retreats are highly valued.
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