Insights from a Silent Meditation Retreat, Aug 2023

 


Am capturing some key insights from my recent experience at Bodhi Zendo, a meditation centre just outside Kodaikanal, South India.  

 

The Importance of ‘Sanga’

I had heard of this place for a few years and wanted to experience it. But never really made any serious efforts. Then I was speaking to Gowri Shankar, a fellow Rotarian, who said he was going for a 3 day session. Further, he invited me to stay over at him home in Kodaikanal, a hill station relatively close by. It was this nudge from Gowri that catalyzed a desire into action. Ancient wisdom and modern transformational practices have emphasized the importance of like minded travelers (‘sanga’) especially when one is on a journey outside typical social norms. Here was this reminder one more time.

 

Clarity of the ‘Why’ and Perseverance are Needed to Overcome the Mind-Games

Despite many similar solo trips over the past 15 years, it’s amazing how the mind can come up with multiple reasons for not making this trip. I once again experienced this phenomenon and had to actively work through these ‘games’ to make the trip. As soon as I was in the airport, I felt them fade away and a sense of quiet enthusiasm was pervasive. Having clarity on ‘why’ I was making this trip was an important reminder. (In this case, I was feeling mentally on edge and felt a need to quieten my mind).

 

The Importance of a Retreat (minus phones, in silence and in nature)

Just getting away and spending two days in a quiet retreat environment is very nourishing for me. The pleasures of hearing the wind through the trees, simple and tasty food, two days of total silence and the discipline that allows us to keep away distractions ( no talking, no phones on silent kept in the room) immediately brings such respite.

 

A Learning Environment with Fellow Travellers

This was my first deep dive into a purely meditation program. I have noticed a significant difference in the quality of my meditation practice upon return. Plus a few other insights became deeper and new ones emerged. These included:

  • A correction to my sitting posture
  • The Teacher answered an important question related to a personal struggle I face in large social gatherings (about acceptance of the discomfort – “Making friends with the bandits”)
  • An insight about contributory relationships as compared to dependent ones
  • Learning about the ‘7+3 worlds’ that we flit in an out of each day

Happy to elaborate if interested.


Really fortunate to have a lifestyle and support that allows me explore these worlds both external and within. 



Sanjay

Aug 7, 2023

 

 

Comments

  1. vigiAugust 7, 2023 at 9:32 AM

    I have been curious about Bodhi Zendo, as i post it multiple times over the years. Now I have your to ask! Glad your meditation has got stronger!

    ReplyDelete
  2. vm8154099@gmail.comAugust 11, 2024 at 3:47 AM

    This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  3. vm8154099@gmail.comAugust 11, 2024 at 3:48 AM

    This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  4. vm8154099@gmail.comAugust 11, 2024 at 3:50 AM

    Thanks for this I would like to share more information
    regarding meditation

    ReplyDelete

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

The Importance of Rekindling Play – 5 Days in Bir, June 2024

Image
  The Importance of Rekindling Play – 5 Days in Bir, June 2024 Feeling overwhelmed and stressed? Sometimes, taking a step back to rekindle play and patience can be transformative. Over the past week, I attended a program called “A Primer on Patience” at the Deer Park Institute in Bir, Himachal Pradesh, India. This program, based on Buddhist psychology, offered a ‘light-touch’ approach to imparting deep-rooted wisdom in an interactive and enjoyable manner accessible to everyone. I had previously studied under the lead trainer, Nivedita, and her down-to-earth and practical style of imparting wisdom resonated deeply with me. More importantly, Nivedita embodies humility and warmth, making the experience even more enriching. Here are five key insights and takeaways from my time there: 1. I Felt Free and Energized! I had forgotten how much I love sharing space with like-minded individuals in a fun learning and authentic sharing environment. We learned, we shared, we drew, we laughed, and...
Read more

We Are All on 'Standby'....

Image
We Are All On 'Standby'.... In the past few days, three poignant experiences wove themselves into a single narrative that felt too significant not to share. The first is something we all experience this time of year: the turning of the calendar . One year ends, and another begins. It’s a natural time to reflect, reset, and reimagine what’s ahead. The second was attending a memorial service for a young man who tragically passed away. It was a moving tribute, but also a stark reminder of life’s unpredictability. As I sat there, a friend shared about their elderly parent, deeply suffering, and said, “I wish they would find peace and move on.” The contrast was striking: here was a young man, full of life and promise, gone too soon, while another life lingered on amidst suffering. The third came from my own home. My daughter is preparing to leave for the U.S. on a standby ticket, arranged through her cousin. When people asked, “When are you leaving?” she replied, “Maybe today,” be...
Read more

"I have no intention of dying before my death" - Lessons from a Centurion

Image
  Living Fully and Leading with Intention "I have no intention of dying before my death." This powerful declaration set the tone for an inspiring morning, offering valuable insights for today’s leaders. We gathered in a sunlit, glass-enclosed room—a perfect setting for a Sunday filled with meaningful conversations and deep reflections. The atmosphere was warm, the coffee was perfect, but the true highlight of the morning was a discussion with a centenarian who had recently celebrated his 100th birthday. For the next hour, we were guided through a fascinating conversation about life lessons and their relevance in today’s fast-paced, ever-changing world. This centenarian’s wisdom was profound, and as leaders, we were reminded that leadership is as much about character and wisdom as it is about strategy and execution. Here are some key lessons that stood out, offering valuable guidance for leaders at every stage: "I have no intention of dying before my death." This sta...
Read more