The Mind and the Heart are not separate. We’ll take this week of silence to explore and put into practice various skillful means to let go of unproductive habits of mind. We can then experience insights that heal, uplift and ultimately free us. This results in a clear, quiet mind and a relaxed open heart.

The retreat will consist of silent sitting and walking practice, meditation instructions, interviews with the teachers and dharma talks. The meditation techniques we practice are over 2,500 years old and are mostly based on the Theravada Buddhist tradition. Taking part in the retreat does not, however, require an adherence to Buddhism or any adaptation of personal faith.

Why take part in the retreat? What happens on a retreat?

The retreat is suitable for both beginners and experienced practitioners. Beginners have a chance to become familiar with basic meditation techniques and to see their effects clearly in practice, so a retreat is a good way to begin a meditation practice. For experienced meditators, a retreat is a great opportunity to deepen and clarify their practice under the guidance of qualified teachers.

Teachings are offered mainly in English. The daily routine consists mostly of sitting and walking meditation and also includes instructions for meditation, an evening talk, a working period and a voluntary exercise of mindful movement. The retreat is held in silence except during individual or group interviews with a teacher.

The retreat includes a daily breakfast, lunch and light dinner, all vegan. Participants stay in 2-4 person rooms. The retreat will take place at the Kreivilä course centre, which is located in Matku, near Forssa, on the shore of Lake Matkujärvi.