Lovingkindness and mindfulness are two keys to overcoming suffering, especially in the forms of judgment and separation so pervasive in our culture and personal lives. In this retreat we will begin with classic lovingkindness instructions from the early Buddhist tradition. We will work with radiating lovingkindness, beginning with ourselves, and expanding in all directions. Later, we will introduce a simple practice of resting in the recognition of awareness, and with the support of breath, open our hearts to others. This specific practice is inspired by a special approach to the Tibetan practice of Tonglen (giving and receiving) from one of Matthew's Tibetan Buddhist teachers. Together, these practices may be used in both formal meditation and daily life situations. They can help us to dissolve clouds of judgment, separation, and a wide range of difficult emotions, allowing the natural radiance of our hearts to shine forth, bringing benefit to ourselves and others. This retreat is suitable for experienced and new meditators alike.
Matthew Daniell is the guiding teacher of NSIMC. He has been practicing Buddhist meditation since the 1980s, including over a decade in Asia, where he practiced Zen intensively in Japan, Tibetan Buddhism in India, and Insight meditation in Burma, India, and Thailand. Read more at Matthew’s teacher page.
The fee for this program is $45 for members and $50 for nonmembers (become a member here). To register and pay online, click below; if paying by cash or check, send an email to northshoreimc@gmail.com.