How to practice in retreat

How to practice in retreat

Part of a series of short teachings given during the Four Establishments of Mindfulness Winter Retreat in 2013. More extensive teachings on the establishments of mindfulness can be found here.

  • General instructions on what to do during and between meditation sessions
    • First thing in the morning generate motivation, take refuge and generate bodhicitta
    • At meal times renew your intentions
    • During the break times maintain continuity of relaxed and spacious mind even while reading, doing exercise or chores
    • At the end of the day check-up on the mind, do confession if necessary and generate determination not to make the same mistakes again
    • While sleeping recognize your dreams and their illusionary nature

Venerable Thubten Chodron

Venerable Chodron emphasizes the practical application of Buddha’s teachings in our daily lives and is especially skilled at explaining them in ways easily understood and practiced by Westerners. She is well known for her warm, humorous, and lucid teachings. She was ordained as a Buddhist nun in 1977 by Kyabje Ling Rinpoche in Dharamsala, India, and in 1986 she received bhikshuni (full) ordination in Taiwan. Read her full bio.