We all hear about the benefits of meditation, yet many find it challenging to actually practice and/or bring the benefits into our everyday lives. These challenges are often due to misconceptions: that busy people don’t have time, or that meditating means uncomfortable bodily contortion, a quiet mind, and a profound spiritual experience. During this half day retreat we’ll drop those unhelpful notions and develop a learned understanding of the practices that’ll leave us feeling excited and inspired to explore, both on and “off the cushion”. 

*What is this? 

An opportunity to learn the mechanics of a few different practices and approaches to meditation and working with the breath. You’ll walk away with a deeper knowledge on topics ranging from how to settle down, how to create a comfortable posture, how and when to (and not to) focus, what to do with unpleasant feelings like anxiety, sadness, boredom, restlessness, etc… Basically how to not feel like a crazy person who cannot sit still or quiet their own mind! And importantly, it’s a chance to practice together with other folks, ask questions, and share experiences. 

Who is this for?

For the brand new beginner as well as the more seasoned meditator, anyone who wants to learn to live more thoughtfully, intentionally, and skillfully, and to engage these practices in their everyday “normal”  life.

You do not need to be flexible or comfortable sitting on the floor. Meditation cushions and other props exist for a reason! And seated in a chair is a perfectly acceptable, very common posture, and despite what some believe, and 100% “counts” as “real” meditation. 

What can I expect?

Logistically, the day will involve alternating periods of instruction and formal practice of both seated and walking meditation, each lasting from a few minutes to no longer than 30 minutes. Silence will be encouraged for the most part, but there will also be small group sessions along with opportunities to ask questions. 

If you’re new to meditation or have tried and failed before, I hope you walk away with a sense of freedom from what you’ve thought meditation “should” be and inspiration to create your own practice, however small you choose to begin. 

If you’ve been practicing for a bit, whether a few months or a few decades,  you’ll have the chance to look at your practice from a different perspective, and hopefully walk away with new tools and a renewed commitment to your path. 

Enlightenment is not guaranteed ;) though you’ll walk away feeling lighter than you came.