Mahamudra Shamatha—Embracing the View, Allowing the Meditation (3 days)

Mahamudra Shamatha—Embracing the View, Allowing the Meditation

with Lama Eric and Lama Sonam

In the tradition of Mahamudra, we begin shamatha practice (resting meditation) while understanding the view of the nature of mind, allowing this to inform the meditation from the start. A foundational practice, some familiarity with shamatha is an indispensable prerequisite for the further practices of insight and other meditations. Developing facility with it, we begin to progress from confusion to clarity and gain tools that can help keep us centered in an increasingly chaotic world.

We are pleased to announce that Lama Sonam Dargye of Eugene will again join us and share instructions on Kalu Rinpoche’s Extraordinary Shamatha (Shinay). This is a rich meditation on the pure essence of the five elements—earth, water, fire, wind, and space—and their progressive dissolution. Lama Sonam will unpack some of the many profound aspects of this rich practice.

Retreat allows for an intensive yet spacious opportunity to explore these practices and gives us confidence to continue on our own. Though the days will be full, there will be ample breaks as well as opportunities to stretch after every 30 minutes of sitting. Most of the time will be spent contemplating and meditating, but there will also be some teaching and daily opportunities for questions and discussion. Limited opportunities will be provided to speak with the instructors as well.

For those beginning a regular meditation practice, and those wishing to refresh and deepen what is already known, this will be a unique opportunity. Inspired by the Mahamudra teachings passed down throughout the ages, the retreat will emphasize experience and a lively approach.

There are no prerequisites to participate in this retreat, but you must be able to attend all the sessions.

Three-day retreat: Thursday, October 21st evening through Sunday, October 24^th evening.

Seven-day retreat: Thursday, October 21st evening through Thursday, October 28^th evening.

Daily Schedule:

6:30-7:30am

9:00-10:30am

11:00-12:00pm

2:00-3:30pm

4:00-5:00pm

5:30-6:30pm