VIPASSANA MEDITATION RETREAT

Vipassana is also called insight meditation because it gives us insight into the nature of the body-mind process. It is practiced by developing mindfulness and bare attention, where one learns to observe what is happening in each moment, without reacting to our experience of what is happening. Non-judgemental observation allows space and acceptance of ‘what is’. When the mind is free of clinging, condemning and identifying, it resides at peace with all, tranquil and alert. What grace to move through life like this.

Meditation reveals what is hidden, the true nature of our experience, unclouded by concepts and value judgements that veil the truth of things as they are. We begin to see with a clear mind and an open heart. For anyone aspiring towards enlightenment, cultivating mindfulness is essential. As our mindfulness deepens, so does our understanding. To practice is to nourish our quality of mindfulness and presence. Coming into and residing in the present moment, we experience the dynamic energy and rich diversity of our being. Clear observation brings insight and wisdom into who, what and how we really are. Through personal experience of being aware of what is true in each moment, comes transformation that gradually leads to freedom. Spiritual practice talks a lot about ‘letting go’ – vipassana meditation teaches you how to do this, weakening the strong forces of desire, and ego-grasping in the mind. Our static ego-centric approach to life is the cause of so much suffering. The more we can let go, the more we can flow gracefully with the impermanence of life, constantly moving and changing. When we are aligned with the true nature of reality, we learn to dance with life.

This retreat will be conducted by a Buddhist monk with expert knowledge of meditation and traditional Buddhist scriptures. He will teach the foundations of mindfulness meditation (mindfulness of body, feelings, mind, and objects of mind). He will teach breathing, sitting, and walking meditation, and will demonstrate monastic chanting practices. The retreat will be held in Noble Silence, giving retreatants space to go inwards, a valuable opportunity to observe what is happening deep within themselves. From observation, comes clarity, insight, and understanding of the deeper truths of oneself and of life.  

REV. PANNASEKARA was born in Sri Lanka where he ordained as a Buddhist monk in 1987. He came to Tanzania 1998, as chief monk representing the Sri Lanka Order in Africa. He is currently residing in South Africa while completing a PhD degree at UNISA on “Buddhism and Social Values in Africa”. He also teaches at the African Buddhist Seminary, Nan Hua Temple, near Bronkhorstspruit. He is a specialist in Buddhist scriptures, the Tripitaka and has taught Vipassana meditation for more than 15 years.

SAT CHIT ANAND is a Buddhist Centre and Guesthouse in Plettenberg Bay. It has been hosting meditations and Buddhist teachings for several years, and in 2005 it is pleased to host spiritual retreats, which may be attended on a residential or non-residential basis. A retreat is a time to remove oneself from the distractions of the world, and focus intensely on one’s spiritual practice. Traditionally this involves receiving and contemplating teachings, meditating and doing spiritual practices.

WEEKEND RETREAT SCHEDULE

THURSDAY:

19h00: Free introductory talk

FRIDAY:

19h00 – 21h00: Homage to Buddha and introduction

Noble silence to be maintained throughout retreat

SATURDAY:                                                   

09h00 – 10h00: Dharma talk

10h00 – 11h00: Meditation instruction and questions              

TEA BREAK                                          

11h30 – 12h30: Walking and sitting meditation

12h30: LUNCH                                        

14h00 – 15h00: Walking and sitting meditation              

15h00 – 16h00: Dharma talk             

18h00: SUPPER (residents only)

19h00 – 20h00: Homage to Buddha and chanting (optional)

SUNDAY:

09h00 – 10h00: Dharma talk

10h00 – 11h00: Meditation instruction and questions

TEA BREAK

11h30 – 12h30: Walking and sitting meditation

12h30: LUNCH

14h00 – 15h00: Walking and sitting meditation

15h00 – 16h00: Dharma talk

TEA, sharing and depart home