Insight meditation (vipassana) is a powerful system that was taught by the Buddha to attain awakening. Anapansati is the form of vipassana meditation in which mindful breathing is used to develop both samatha (a serene and concentrated mind) and vipassana (insightful seeing). This retreat offers an opportunity to practice these ancient Theravada Buddhist traditions. We also practice mindfulness yoga, inspired by the tradition of T.K.V. Desikachar. Mindfulness yoga simultaneously cultivates mindfulness of body and breath, generates energy, strengthens the spine, makes breath sensations more vivid, and prepares the body for sitting meditation. Through daily instruction, discussions, silent meditation, and yoga sessions, we begin to see that close and sustained coordination of insight meditation and mindfulness yoga calms and stabilizes the mind so it can see into itself and let go into freedom. Practice in daily life, including our time together while at Omega, is emphasized. No previous experience in either meditation or yoga is necessary. All levels of practitioners are welcome and physical limitations will be honored. Bring a mat or blanket for yoga practice. Recommended reading: Gunaratana, Mindfulness in Plain English; Rosenberg, Breath by Breath; and T.K.V. Desikachar, The Heart of Yoga. Matthew Daniell is also teaching Insight Meditation for Beginners; May 7-9 and October 22-24, 2010.NATABOC CE Level Essential. Larry Rosenberg, PhD, is a senior teacher at the Insight Meditation Society and is the founder and a senior teacher at the Cambridge Insight Meditation Center. His books include Breath by Breath and Living in the Light of Death. cimc.info Matthew Daniell is founder and resident teacher at the Insight Meditation Center of Newburyport. Daniell holds teaching certificates in Kripalu Yoga and Sivananda Yoga, and has trained extensively in the tradition of T.K.V. Desikachar. imcnewburyport.com |
