Meditation Retreat
The 2009 retreat is in two parts: Introduction to Tranquility Meditation from 1st – 4th May and Taoist Breathing and Meditation from 4th – 8th May. It is possible to attend either or both parts.
This retreat takes place in silence with certain dietary restrictions designed to support the process of cleansing the body and the mind.
Part 1 – Introduction to Tranquility Meditation, 1st – 4th May 2009. This is essentially ‘satipatthana’ – an approach to meditation that is aimed at developing mindfulness. The course will introduce the fundamentals of anapana sati (mindfulness of breath) and will incline towards samattha bhavana (tranquility). It will introduce four elements meditation: the investigation of materiality and its characteristics in the body. It is aimed at beginners and particularly those students who have been attending the monthly Water Method trainings in Foix.
While the practice during Part 1 is essentially drawn from Theravadan Buddhist practice, the foundation it provides in establishing good concentration and sati (mindfulness) provides an excellent foundation for the Taoist longevity meditation to follow. Those with experience who have previously attended meditation retreats are welcome and will be offered the opportunity to deepen their practice.
'Tourné is a very special place, a place where the sound of the trees and the river can be heard, the voices within can go quiet and reflection comes naturally.'
The meditation will include two sessions each day of chi yoga or general chi gung. This short retreat will be in silence and provides an excellent opportunity to glimpse and to taste the power of tranquility while sitting, but more important, when taken into daily life. Participants who are intending to attend this course should view it as a real tonic. Regardless of perceived ability, all participants will be surprised by the support they receive for their practice.
Part 2 – Taoist Breathing and Meditation, 4th - 8th May 2009. This course will follow on directly from Part 1. Participants who have not attended Part 1 are asked to arrive between 4.00pm in the afternoon and at the latest at 6.30pm in the evening, when the course will formally begin. It may be taken separately or in addition to Part 1.
Those who are new to Taoist breathing will be taken through the basic training. Those who have already attained a 30 second breath (15/15) will meditate making use of the circular breathing. Open to all levels, Part 2 will include two daily sessions of waking dragon dao-in and basic chi gung to complement the breathing and meditation. An opportunity to enter the Taoist temple after tasting some methods of the Buddhist Theravadan tradition.
Both parts of the course provide an opportunity to deepen or to establish practice. Both support improving or maintaining health and well-being. A tranquil mind that is less and less obstructed by thoughts and habitual association can work vigorously if required. Tranquility supports and promotes deep rest and release. A body that can breathe deeply and smoothly permits the mind to open to healing and release at levels that yield astonishing results.
Taken together, participants will have a rare chance to explore the methods for the greatest results. “Success” in meditation does not depend on method alone but upon skilled application - here the opportunity lies to investigate the methods and to approach a harmonious healing mind that is capable of healing the body as well as accessing tranquility. The practices are mutually beneficial, so those who are more inclined towards one practice will find that the other supports progress.
Participants can expect to deepen their insight into mindfulness, its importance and how to cultivate it for the purposes of clarity and health.
Chi gung or yoga practitioners will benefit from the deeper levels of clarity that become accessible through this kind of deep and sustained practice.
During this retreat there will be plenty of opportunity to explore and enjoy this very special venue and surrounding countryside and also enjoy the benefits of delicious home cooked organic food.
When's the next retreat taking place?
Part 1 – Tranquility Meditation will begin at 6.30pm in the evening on Friday 1st May and will finish on Monday morning, 4th May at 7.00am. There will be no formal break for those who are staying on for Part 2.
Part 2 – Taoist Breathing and Meditation will begin at 6.30pm in the evening on Monday 4th May and will finish on Friday morning, 8th May at 10.00am. Participants who have not attended Part 1 are asked to arrive between 4.00pm and 6.30pm on 4th May.
More information about the venue
