Beauty & Style
Each Wednesday we will cover topics related to wellness, covering anything from mascara tips to meditation retreats. Just as it seems impossible to find the perfect mascara, it can be daunting to “learn to meditate.” I was fortunate enough to travel to India where I spent one month studying Hindi philosophy and meditation techniques at an Ashram. And even with that experience under my belt, I have found it extremely difficult to create a disciplined meditation routine at home. I have tried a number of local classes, but found myself disappointed time after time.
Never give up. Based on the recommendations of two friends, Ashley and Christopher, I have decided to sign up for a 10-day meditation retreat through the California Vipassana Center in North Fork, California. Upon my return in April, I will share my thoughts and feelings with you. Until then, I have included a few bullet points about the center to spark your curiosity.
- Vipassana is based on the teachings of Buddha, but is non-sectarian. It is considered “the Art of Living”.
- The retreat is a silent retreat and has a very strict schedule (including a 4 a.m. wake-up call for sunrise meditation).
- First time students are required to commit to the full 10-days of the course. Returning students can continue their practice with one day “refresher” classes.
- There is no charge for the class. You are able to donate at the completion of the course based on your volition and means.
If this intrigues you, learn more on-line.
Or if YOU have any recommendations regarding meditation in L.A., add a comment below.
California Vipassana Center
P.O. Box 1167 North Fork, CA 93643 P
*Not exactly “local” to L.A., but the volunteers can help you coordinate carpooling. The organization is also in the process of building another center in Palm Springs.
- 2 comments
- Your thoughts?
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Christopher Kai
Here are my comments I wrote immediately following my retreat last June:
1. 10-day Meditation Retreat June 2nd-June 13th, Boonsville, CA [2 1/4 hrs north of San Francisco]
No cell phones. No computers. No talking. No books or writing materials. It sounds like a reality TV show, except there weren’t any barbie-doll blondes or tiny-tanktop wearing Timmys’; this 10-day meditation retreat was the easiest thing, and the hardest thing I’ve ever done in my life.
- I began my meditation journey 11 years ago in NYC. Through this decade, during the times I consistently meditated [before sleeping/morning rising] I always felt more peaceful, calm, and aware of my surroundings. Just as we need food to sustain our ‘physical’ bodies, meditation sustains our ‘mental/emotional/spiritual’ bodies. Consistent meditation has trumped any and every so-called ‘remedy’ I’ve ever needed. I believe that our human bodies are amazing creations, and if we treat it well, it can heal itself. Meditation is the perfect vacuum cleaner to clear away all the daily dirt we accumulate throughout our lives.
Here’s an excerpt from my friend’s description of the retreat:
“The main event at the children’s campsite involved several challenges:
-such as 4am wake-up bells,
-11 designated meditation hours each day,
-no dinner,
-Other features included: no talking, reading, writing, phones, computers, or any kind of stimulation;
-sittings of “strong determination” where you are not allowed to open your eyes or move your hands or legs for one continuous hour;
-3 days spent focusing on my natural respiration and 7 days spent focusing on
sensations on our body.
-On the last day we could talk and the entire
day was spent probing the fascinating milieu of fellow meditators.
The main purpose of this technique is to be aware of sensation while remaining calm and peaceful no matter what.” [Feel free to email me if you want to learn more at: christopher@kgpub.com]
Christopher Kai
Thanks for letting me share!
