November Meditation Retreat
Quiet the mind, and the soul will speak
This Saturday, November 18th, is our first meditation retreat of the semester that will take place on campus in commons 318 from 10:30 am to 4:00 pm. This retreat is free and lunch will be provided. Please wear warm clothes as we may be going outside for walking meditation.
Why participate in a meditation retreat?
A meditation retreat helps to deepen the meditation experience and will allow you to have greater focus on your practice more so than what you might have experienced at the meditation club’s regular meetings, or with solitary meditation.
What will I be doing at the retreat?
Noble Silence
The first important aspect of this retreat is Noble Silence. After our introduction into the retreat, we ask that all participants limit their talking solely to necessary speech, such as asking questions or voicing concerns. Silence during the retreat helps the mind to rest whereas social conversation keeps the mind active. With silence comes greater mindfulness and concentration.
Mindful Eating
Applied to eating, mindfulness includes noticing the colors, smells, flavors, and textures of your food; chewing slowly; getting rid of distractions like TV or reading; and learning to cope with guilt and anxiety about food.
The theme of the retreat relates to Thanksgiving, a time of gratitude. By eating mindfully, we show gratitude for the food that we are able share with each other.
Sitting Meditation
The most recognized form of meditation is sitting meditation. Together, we will sit for various periods of time throughout the retreat. We will discuss sitting posture and guide you in seated meditation at this retreat.
Hand Mudra Meditation
Mudra is a Sanskrit term meaning “seal”. Our hands are connected to our brain and as such, the way we hold our hands can influence our brain and allow us to direct the flow of energy in our body.
Walking Meditation
Normally, we walk mindlessly because it is something we are taught in an infantile state that has become automatic. Walking meditation focuses on the physical experience of walking. We pay close attention to each step we take as we walk so that the familiar becomes a tool for us to increase awareness.
Meditation Guidance
While we are not a religiously affiliated club, we do appreciate and welcome guidance from Buddhist Reverend Eunju Nam who leads in guided meditation, yoga mediation, meditation reflections, and more.
We hope to help you gain even more from your commitment to meditation and thank you for joining us! See you all this Saturday!
Peace and Tranquility,
Please contact lambert7@umbc.edu if you have any questions.