Vipassana, is one of the oldest meditation technique from India; This is the method that Gotama the Buddha (the founder of Buddhism) used more than 2500 years ago to attain enlightenment.
The word Vipassana means “to see things as they are in reality.” Through this practice we begin a journey of self-exploration and self-observation in order to free our minds of impurities and achieve mental balance.
Just like we do physical exercises to ensure good physical health, through Vipassana we can develop a healthy mind.
So today I want to give you some basic information about the courses offered by Dhamma, which has Meditation centers around the world.
Course overview
Duration
For those attending for the first time, the course lasts 10 days, thus ensuring that students learn the basics of the technique and practice enough to appreciate results.
Once this course has been done, people can attend to others of different durations.
During the 10 days the attendees are totally disconnected from the world; the centers are located in remote areas of the cities and no contact (physical, verbal, visual with anyone) is allowed.
Phases
The course is divided into three phases: abstinence, mastery of the mind and meditation.
- Phase 1: in order to calm the mind, students should refrain from killing, stealing, lying, using intoxicating substances and having sexual activities.
- Phase 2: focus only on the natural reality, starting with the breathing to gradually be able to appreciate all the sensations of the body itself, learning not to react to them.
- Phase 3: the last day of the course the students will learn the meditation of love and goodwill towards all.
Schedule
The bell rings at 4am and the practice extends until 9pm.
During the day there are around 10 hours of meditation practice and every night, at 7pm there is a lecture by the teacher
Price
The course is free (including food and lodging), preserving its tradition. At the end of the course donations are accepted, but the people involved in the education do not receive any economic remuneration.
What to expect?
At the end of the 10 days total liberation will not be achieved; Like any technique, practice is required, so it is important to continue practicing once the course is over and transfer what’s learned into real life.
Who can attend?
Everyone can attend; both sexes, any race, religion, etc. Only those with severe physical or mental illness should refrain from taking the courses.
Pregnant women, people with food allergies and individuals who have not experienced meditation in previous cases can attend without problems.
I hope this is helpful. As soon as I return from my Vipassana I will tell you about my experience.
Love and gratitude
♥♥♥
