Registration closes at 9:00am (Pacific Time) on October 1, 2022. A waiting list will be created if the program fills early. A recording* will be available following the program in approximately 10 days.
Open to: Everyone
Description:
Unlock the incredible capacities of your mind to think clearly, reflect deeply, discern what is real, and pay attention to what is actually happening in your life. By overcoming habitual modes of thinking, you will develop deeper concentration, and discover insights into emptiness that are vital for a liberating spiritual life.
In this daylong retreat, you will explore five pragmatic instructions for removing worry, rumination, and distracting thoughts. These strategies are drawn from the discourses of the Buddha and explained in Shaila’s latest book, Beyond Distraction: Five Practical Ways to Focus the Mind.
Whether you’re a beginner who struggles to tame a restless mind, or an advanced meditator practicing to deepen concentration and insight, these methods for removing distracting thoughts can help you cultivate clarity and stability in your meditation practice, relationships, work, and daily activities.
All are welcome! No one will be turned away for lack of funds as space allows. For more information, please email Registration@spiritrock.org.
*Recording Note: If you would like access to the recording, you must register by the deadline above. You will have ~90 days from the original program date to view the recording of this program.
Tentative Schedule: (subject to change)
10:00-11:15am: Zoom Session 1 – Welcome, Two Kinds of Thought and Guided Meditation
11:15-11:30am: Break
11:30am-12:30pm: Zoom Session 2 – Strategies #1 (Replacing) & #2 (Examine Dangers) and Guided Meditation
12:30-1:30pm: Meal break/Lunch
1:30-2:30pm: Zoom Session 3 – Strategies #3 (Withdraw Attention) and #4 (Investigation)
2:30-2:45pm: Break
2:45-4:00pm: Zoom Session 4 – Strategy #5 (Determination) and Guided meditative review of 5 strategies for removing distracting thoughts.