Ānāpānasati, mindfulness of breathing, is the most detailed meditation instruction the Buddha offers in the Pali suttas (MN 118). He also says that this meditation approach fulfills the foundations of mindfulness (catu satipaṭṭhāna) and the seven factors of enlightenment (satta bojjhaṅga), culminating in full awakening. As we practice with the sixteen instructions of ānāpānasati, we will also explore how they can lead into deep meditative states (samādhi), and the limitless states of loving-kindness, compassion, appreciative joy, and equanimity (brahmavihāras).
This program will have some monastic influence, such as the opportunity to keep eight precepts and participate in daily chanting. The teachings will be grounded in Early Buddhist Texts and are particularly informed by the Thai Forest Tradition. Elements of the Buddha’s teachings that are sometimes found to be challenging, such as karma, rebirth, and the goal of liberation, will also be explored.
Program Format: There will mostly be noble silence, guided and unguided meditation, and a daily lecture using PowerPoint slides, with a little chanting morning and evening. There will also be ample time for questions and reflection and discussion in the large group and in one teacher-led small group discussion meeting for each yogi during the program.
