Why Meditate? Uncovering the Wisdom Mind

Join Island Dharma for this Silent Summer Retreat

Why Meditate? Uncovering the Wisdom Mind

As so many appreciative students know from direct experience, Dr. Cheryl is a highly regarded Dharma teacher who has been teaching at Bethlehem and elsewhere for many years now. In this retreat, she asks the question – “Why Meditate?” Many beings come to the study of Dharma (teachings of Buddhist philosophy) and the practice of meditation to change something. Perhaps you are drawn to Buddhism because you want more calm, less distraction, more happiness, less pain and suffering. Yet according to the Buddha, we do not need to “get” anything. Rather, we simply need to uncover the clear, calm, loving, luminous mind that shines underneath the clouds of our confusion. The Awake, Compassionate mind is available at all times. This silent meditation retreat will focus on practices that help liberate the peace, joy and kindness of the Awake mind. We will explore the nature of compassion and wisdom. This retreat will also focus on assisting students to build strength, or merit, through the exploration of the 6 Perfections (Parami)- Generosity, Integrity, Patience, Diligence, Concentration, and Insight.

This silent retreat will include sitting and walking meditation. We will focus on the practice of Mahamudra, or Open Awareness meditation. There will also be periods of concentration practice, using breath as an object. There will be yoga classes offered (moving meditation in the form of yoga is an excellent support for the sitting meditation practice). There will be Daily Dharma talks and group interviews with the teacher.

This retreat is suitable for experienced students who have a daily meditation practice and/or have attended at least one silent retreat. However, interested novices are welcome providing you are willing to jump in and participate fully in the retreat.

Registration Closes June 30th