|
|
|
|
A meditation retreat in nature is a unique way to be in the natural world. Normally we are so busy doing something in nature, or talking so much that we fail to appreciate the subtlety, mystery and beauty of the natural world. The retreat is designed to support a full immersion in the wonders of nature. It is also designed to support our inner journey, so we can see more clearly the truth of who we are, and listen to the deeper calling of our heart.
Silence
Quieting the external noise of conversation helps the mind and heart become more still. It is in such quietude that we can fully attune to the depth of silence in nature. Many insights and mysteries are revealed when we become that quiet. It allows an openness to the exquisite perfection in nature. It also enables us to have a deeper and clearer understanding of ourselves, who we are, and what issues we may be working with at this time. Nature is the ultimate healer. To allow it to do her work, we need to cultivate a receptivity to her wisdom.
Meditation
On Nature Retreats, we draw on ancient and contemporary techniques of Buddhist meditation. We learn how to cultivate a simple yet profound quality of mindful awareness in the discipline of meditation. The meditation is essential in developing a profound quality of attention. It leads to a deep quality of presence not just with our own experience, but also with the natural world. It also allows us to learn how to deeply listen, to both ourselves and our environment. To understand the teachings and messages coming from the natural world, we need a certain sensitivity that mindful presence develops. This sensibility also opens us to a joy, receptivity and appreciation, as our hearts deepen in love and aliveness.
For experienced meditators who have not meditated outside or in nature, this is an opportunity to broaden and deepen your understanding of what meditation is, and what it can be. It is a situation that allows you to explore, more fully, living in a mindful way in nature, yet not in the context of a formal retreat in a meditation center. Most people find that meditation outside creates a more spacious, easeful quality in the mind and heart. Meditation outside is not only experienced as more natural, but it also leads to a heartfelt inter-conection with life and insights into our inter-connection with all of life.
|
|
|
Climb the mountains and get their good tidings. Nature's peace will flow into you as sunshine glows into trees. The winds will blow their freshness into you, and the storms their energy, while cares drop off like falling leaves.
- John Muir
|
|
