Vipassana Meditation

On the 4th of November Aña and I started a Vipassana meditation course in North Fork, CA. I didn't know quite what I was getting myself into, but it was Aña's second attendance. She didn't reveal too much about the course, and probably for the better. If I would have known more of the details about the experience prior to attending it, I might not have gone through with it. Having completed it, however, I am very grateful for the experience.

The setting was remote, beautiful and serene. The center was bordering the Sierra National Forest not too far from Yosemite National Park. There was an array of scraggly oak species and smooth red Manzanita trees with small supple jade leafs. Herds of does and a buck frequently trotted and grazed through the grounds. Squirrels were busy burying acorns for the winter while several wood peckers were eating their hearts out on wood grubs. The sunrises and sunsets set the sky ablaze and skewed the many shades of green dancing on the ground.

It was easy to notice the subtleties of nature while spending ten days focusing and quieting the mind. I suppose the vow of noble silence helped in this process. Each day, almost 11 hours were dedicated to meditation. I spent most of these 11 hours perched on a buckwheat pillow on a 2”x2” pad in a seated half-lotus posture. The first three days were spent quieting the mind focusing on respiration. It quickly became obvious how chaotic the mind really is and how easily distracted it is. After three days, however, I had made some progress. On the forth day we started actually practicing the techniques of Vipassana. Supposedly this technique is the purest form of the teaching of Gotama the buddha (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gautama_Buddha). Techniques that are not a rite, ritual, or affiliated with any religious practice. They are universal techniques for purifying the mind, mastering the mind, and developing compassion and wisdom. During these 10 days I experienced intense physical pain, and explored the depths of my unconscious. Without intending to, I feel I got to know myself better in those ten days than I have over the last ten years.

I highly recommend attending a Vipassana course. I can't think of anyone I know who wouldn't benefit from it if they apply themselves. There are courses offered all over the world. They are free, food and housing provided. Find a center near you and learn more at www.dhamma.org. I would be more than happy to answer any questions. This could be the best gift you've ever given yourself.