If you are interested in learning how to meditate or deepen your practice a short stay at a meditation retreat provides you with the ideal space and environment to practice meditation. In this article we look at what you can expect at a meditation retreat.
What Happens At A Meditation Retreat?
At a meditation retreat you meditate and study the theoretical and practical aspects of meditation through workshops, demonstrations and lectures under the guidance of a Meditation Teacher.
What Is Meditation?
Meditation is the process whereby you are able to still and quieten your mind. The purpose is to eliminate distractions, calm and slow down your thoughts. During meditation you achieve a heighten sense of awareness as you focus your mind on either an external object, e.g. a candle, a sacred image or sound; or on a more internal focus such as your breath or repetition of a mantra or prayer. When your mind wanders then you gently bring your attention back to your focus of attention. During meditation you can experience a deep sense of calm, clarity and sense of conscious connection with "yourself, your god and all humanity". It is a peaceful place to be.
Where Are Retreats Held?
Retreats are often held in purpose-built centres dedicated to creating a peaceful and tranquil environment to encourage you to relax, rest and unwind. Centres tend to be in natural settings with little distractions and interference from "the outside" world, e.g, near the coast, in rural countryside settings or in the mountains. Urban retreats may be in the midst of a busy inner city yet strive to support a calm and peaceful internal environment.
Are There Rules At A Retreat?
Once you are inside a meditation centre, you are expected to observe certain codes of behaviour which are enforced to maintain the positive energy and sacredness of the centre. For example, you are encouraged to switch of mobile phones, ipods and other electronic devises during the day, smoking, drinking alcohol, using stimulants and drugs, excessive sexual behaviours and eating certain foods are not allowed.
How Long Can You Stay At A Retreat?
Retreats can last from a one day retreat to a weekend or even longer stay. There are no hard and fast rules. It all depends on what the length of programme on offer by the retreat centre. Some centres allow you to stay and volunteer at the centre as part of your meditation experience.
What Else Happens On A Meditation Retreat?
A lot of retreat centres offer other mind and body activities such as yoga, massages, and healthy living workshops; Food wise, most retreats prepare fresh healthy foods using organic or vegan and vegetarian dishes. Special diets are catered for. Some retreats expect you to voluntary give a couple hours of your day towards the running of the centre, such as, helping with the cooking, garden duties or administrative details.
So, if you are keen to learn how to meditate, kick-start or deepen your meditation practice then time spent on a meditation retreat offers you a break from your daily routine to experience the joys of meditation.
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Thank You
Stay Blessed and Be Well
From: Ntathu Allen, Yoga and Meditation Teacher
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