INSIGHT MEDITATION (VIPASSANA) is a simple and direct
practice of moment-to-moment investigation of the mind/body process through
calm and focused awareness. Begun more than 2,500 years ago this practice
originates in the Theravada tradition of the teachings of the Buddha. Learning
to observe experience from a place of stillness enables one to relate to
life with less fear and clinging. Seeing life as a constantly changing process,
one begins to accept pleasure and pain, fear and joy, and all aspects of
life with increasing equanimity and balance. As insight deepens, wisdom
and compassion arise. Insight meditation is a way of seeing clearly the
totality of one's being and experience. This practice requires no belief
commitments and is compatible with all religious affiliations.
VIPASSANA RETREATS are designed for both beginning and experienced
meditators. Daily instruction in meditation and nightly dhamma talks by
the teacher are given, and individual or group interviews are arranged with
the teacher at regular intervals. The entire day is spent in silent meditation
practice with alternating periods of sitting and walking meditation. The
combination of this regular schedule, the silence, group support, and daily
instructions provides a beneficial environment for developing and deepening
meditation practice. Complete silence is maintained at all times except
during teacher interviews and question/answer periods. Beginners MUST be present from the start of the
retreat to receive initial instructions.
To gain the most benefit, participants
are encouraged to attend the full retreat.
METTA (Loving Kindness) RETREAT: The practice of loving kindness teaches us to love
unconditionally. We learn to open our hearts and to be loving and accepting
toward ourselves and others. With practice we can develop a radiant, kind
heart. The practice of loving kindness also provides the foundation for
the development of compassion, joy and equanimity. Loving kindness is a
powerful practice and can change how we view the world.
10 PARAMIS RETREAT: Dhamma
talks are dedicated to deeply examining the 10 paramis, or noble qualities
of mind and heart, which must be fulfilled by Bodhisattva's, someone who
has aspiration to help other beings. The 10 paramis are: generosity, virtue,
renunciation, wisdom, energy, patience, truthfulness, determination, loving-kindness
and equanimity.
RETREAT DETAILS: Meals (when offered) are simple vegetarian. A complimentary
tea table will be available. Please contact the registrar if you have special
dietary needs. Meals are not provided for the nonresidential retreats, unless
indicated. Bring
a lunch each day of non-residential retreats.
Bring a meditation cushion or bench and
a soft floor pad or zabuton for meditation. Standard chairs are available
and may also be used.
Wear comfortable, loose fitting clothes.
Avoid wearing nylon warm-up type clothing that is noisy. Please do not wear
or bring strongly scented lotions, perfumes or incense.
DANA
is a generosity offering to the teacher
and at residential retreats to the teacher and the manager. All registration
fees are used for the retreat expenses. It is central to this tradition
that the students support the teacher with a donation. There is no set amount,
but you are encouraged to give generously to the extent you are able. Dana
is totally voluntary. A box will be available at the retreat for Dana donations
to the teacher and an envelope for the manager at residential retreats.
Do not send Dana
with your registration.
Wheelchair: Unfortunately the buildings at Blacktail Ranch
and in Bozeman are not wheelchair accessible.
REGISTRATION: Further information regarding retreat site, times
and other details will be sent after you register for residential retreats.
Non-residential retreats begin with check-in at 6:30 pm Friday,
Saturday from 9 am-5 pm or 9 pm and Sunday 9 am to12 or 2 pm. (Times can
vary with each retreat). Full payment is due at the time of registration.
Plan to arrive each day 30 min. before starting time to register each day.
Residential retreats: A deposit is required. You will receive a confirmation
letter with location, map and what to bring once your registration is received.
Refunds: No deposits will be refunded after the deadline.
Scholarships: Inability to pay should not prevent you from attending,
as there are some scholarship funds set aside for this purpose. Contact
the Registrar for scholarship criteria. Blacktail Ranch retreats can only
be partial scholarships.
Deadlines: Unless arrangements have been made with the registrar,
payment is due at time of registration..
| 