Daylong Retreat: In the Body, In the Moment

Practical Information
Date: Saturday December 12
Hours:  9:30 – 4:00 PM, with optional social gathering from 4:00 – 4:45 PM
Location: Living Water, 1000 Westover Hills Blvd, Richmond. (Google Maps)
Cost: a donation (dana) for the space and the teachers
Suggested donation: $40 – $200 (see below for more information)
Teachers: Carolyn Stachowski and Chan Brittan
Registration: Please register in advance by filling out this form

Description
This day-long meditation retreat offers an opportunity to deepen meditation practice through mindfulness of the body. 
Drawing on the Buddha’s teachings outlined in the Sattipatana Sutta, a key discourse on how to practice meditation, we will cultivate a steady and continuous awareness to see clearly, without grasping, resisting, or attempting to change what arises.
Throughout the day, the emphasis will be on direct experience. The invitation throughout the day is simple: know the body as it is, moment by moment. Observe carefully. Remain balanced. Letting go through relaxation of the body.  See what arises and what passes away.

Everyone is welcome, no prior meditation experience needed. For those new to meditation we do ask that you watch the series of four videos on the page for beginners.

The day will include alternating periods of meditation, with instruction, mindful movement, restorative rest and opportunities for questions and reflection. During the retreat we will be in “noble silence.” We will only be speaking at designated times and will also turn off our phones and other devices. This is all in order to minimize external distractions, promote mindfulness and inner stillness, and respect the practice of fellow meditators.

Generosity (Donation)
This retreat is offered in the spirit of generosity, as a dana-based (donation-based) retreat. This means that no one will be turned away for lack of funds. The suggested donation is $40 – $200.

Your donation provides support to allow Carolyn and Chan to continue offering these teachings, and covers the use of the space at Living Water. Please give as feels appropriate and generous for you. Please delight in your generosity and know that the dharma continues to be offered to you and others through our collective acts of sharing. All are welcome, no donation is required.

At the retreat there will be the opportunity to offer cash donations, or donations by check. You can also donate online through Chan’s Venmo or Paypal – this will be divided between Chan, Carolyn, and the facility.

More information about the concept of dana, generosity, in Buddhism.

Important

• Please register in advance by filling out the registration form.
• Please bring a bagged lunch. (Tea and water are available).
• If you use a meditation bench, please bring one (if you don’t have one, let us know in the registration form, and we can bring one for you).
• Other meditation supplies like cushions, yoga mats, blankets and chairs are available.

Questions?
Don’t hesitate to contact