THE CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES OF RETREAT

Resting into the ground of being opens one to that which is beyond imagination. ~ Mukti

Before you register for this silent retreat, we invite you to take a moment to reflect on what moves you to attend. We also invite you to review the retreat format to consider the challenges and opportunities a retreat may offer and what conditions may support or hinder being able to fully participate in the retreat experience.

Retreat Structure Details

Developed by Mukti over decades of teaching, both the structure and schedule of silent retreat create an environment that allows everyone to discover and experience the depth of silence. This atmosphere of retreat, cultivated by all, helps promote awareness, reflection, and embodiment of the truth of who we are and all that is.

The schedule consists of six periods of meditation each day, one guided by Mukti. Mukti usually joins for the first and last meditation each day as well. During the remaining periods of daily meditation, participants are encouraged to lean into silence and to feel the support of the larger group of retreatants and the strength of like-minded intention. On each full day, Mukti will lead a morning talk and an evening dialogue period during which she will take questions from the group. These full days include three meal breaks and shorter breaks for resting. Mukti is not available for private meetings. To inquire about private meetings outside of retreat, please email Jackie.

Meditation Attendance

The schedule can be both supportive and at times challenging. Some find that sitting in meditation, especially over several days, can be physically rigorous and taxing on the body. Although participants are encouraged to rest deeply into the rhythms of the schedule, you are not required to attend every session. You may skip a session, if needed. If you have a medical condition that may limit your ability to participate or if you require special assistance, please consult with your medical provider and make any needed arrangements prior to arriving at the retreat.

Strong Emotions during Meditation

Meditation can be a time for contemplation and self-inquiry. It can also be a powerful and stressful activity, which can evoke strong emotions or anxious feelings. At times it may be too difficult to sit with such feelings on one’s own. If this occurs, retreat staff are available to meet briefly with you to provide some support and guidance. Please note: retreat staff are not trained therapists, and retreat is not regarded as a substitute for therapy.

Given this consideration, if you have a pre-existing psychological condition, especially if you are new to the retreat format, we encourage you to consult with your mental health practitioner before participating to ensure that the retreat format, atmosphere, and length are right for you at this time.

Alternatives to Residential Retreats

Shorter Programs

For those who are new to meditation or for whom a longer retreat format may not be best, you might consider attending a shorter program to become more familiar with the teachings. The schedules for these one- or two-day events are less rigorous and do not require participants to maintain silence over many days.

Online Courses (Live or Self-Guided)

Those who would like to explore the depth of retreat but who are unable to attend one in person are encouraged to participate online in a Course or Retreat offered by Mukti.

Self-Guided Retreats

You may prefer to create your own retreat experience in private using one of the MP3 download sets that include all the recorded sessions of a prior live retreat along with some suggestions for how to design a retreat at home. Check out our Retreat-at-Home page.

Should you have further questions about the retreat format or experience, you may contact Open Gate Sangha for assistance.