Description
The Experienced Practitioners Weekend Retreat offers an intensive opportunity to practice in the company of other dedicated practitioners. The meditation instructions provided will be suitable for those who have walked the Eightfold Noble Path for some time (three or more years) and are interested in deepening their practice through the ancient forms originally taught by the Buddha. We will cultivate a sense of connection with others through our shared experiences.
One of the many beautiful aspects of a non-residential weekend retreat is the opportunity to merge one’s everyday life with one’s dharma practice. In addition to periods of group sitting practice, this retreat includes open periods of individual practice in the four postures of sitting, walking, standing, and lying down. This format encourages us to make the practice our own, inviting awareness and fluidity in all four postures. This practice is known as “evening out the postures” which means bringing an equally caring attentiveness to every position.
On Saturday evening, after a short dharma teaching, there will be a dharma talk in which a meditative question is presented. Participants may choose to share their investigation of this question with the group. The opportunity to offer one’s process, challenges and understanding within the context of a non-judgmental and generous-spirited group can truly be transformative, for all.
Attending an online retreat
- Sitting a retreat at home and online is undoubtedly different from coming to a meditation center. Tending to your comfort and giving yourself a quiet, private sitting and walking space (if possible, in your environment) will help keep your attention focused and support your practice and learning. Plan to bring as much simplicity and ease to your day as possible. The retreat schedule is structured to support your well-being and training with regular breaks and time for mindful movement.
- We will use Zoom for this retreat. Before your retreat begins, be sure to download Zoom and familiarize yourself with using the program, including the chat feature. Specifics about how we will use Zoom during your retreat will be covered initially; however, we cannot provide technical support.
- We ask that you treat our virtual meditation hall as if we were together in person, in the same room. The teachers and other yogis benefit significantly from your full presence and careful attention.
- Join each session of the retreat a few minutes early. This will support the teachers and your fellow retreatants.
- Please maintain noble silence as much as possible for the duration of the retreat and take any necessary steps to limit external distractions such as incoming emails, texts, or other interruptions to maintain the integrity of our practice together.
- Close all programs on your computer other than Zoom and turn off all notifications on your devices.
- Ideally, power off phones and smartwatches for the entire time scheduled for the retreat each day. Please don’t check your devices during breaks. We suggest you put an “away” message on your email and voicemail and leave your devices in another room during your retreat hours.
- Please keep your video on during our time together as much as possible. This supports a sense of connectedness and sangha.
- You will receive a welcome email from CIMC that includes the Zoom link, retreat schedule, and further information a day or two before your retreat.