Meditation / Mindfulness retreat

Coming Home – The Work that Reconnects

When we come back to the here and now, we recognize the many conditions of happiness that already exist. The practice of mindfulness is the practice of coming back to the here and now to be deeply in touch with ourselves and with life. We have to train ourselves to do this. – Thich Nhat Hanh

During this 5-days training retreat we will deepen the meditative experience and train in bringing our mindfulness to our relationships and the world we live in. Often the root of our problems is the experience of disconnection with (parts) of ourselves, with others and the underlying interconnectedness of all life on earth. This is why the retreat will focus on how we can restore the connection on these 3 levels in a practical way.

We will explore what can block our innate joy, love, wisdom and common sense in life. And specifically, we will work on techniques that will mitigate anxiety and fear. If practiced with sincerity and authenticity this will enable us to experience coming home amidst the turmoil and challenges of our lives and our societies. Based on the knowledge that it is not the circumstances that determine how we experience our lives, but the way we are open to view the totality of our situation. It takes courage to take that jump, but mindfulness can give you that courage.

Components of the retreat
There are daily sessions of silent meditation alternated with mindful movement, guided practices, talks and time to share experiences in pairs and with the whole group. We offer two specific interpersonal mindfulness practices each day;

Systemic group inquiry for resonant interconnectedness
Synchronising body, speech and mind to connect with self and other in movement
Systemic group inquiry is based on a practical communication method that enables the group to really see and listen to one another, how to build empathic resonant connections and to take behaviour less personally. You will learn how to include all voices that are part of the system/group as a whole. It will give more insight into group dynamics, its phases of development and how to influence the system you’re part of.

Synchronising body, speech and mind is based on the Coordination Method. This approach encompasses the notion of interdependence. Inner processes are externalised and made dynamic through movement exercises. The aim is to enable participants to engage with their internal processes and impulses through being fully present in every moment. At the same time each individual acknowledges  the processes and impulses of the other ensemble members.  The Coordination method uses words such as ‚listening’, ‚tuning to others’, ‚seeing others’.

Requirement for participation
Minimum of one-year mindfulness training with the MA Poland. And mindfulness teachers in MBSR/ MBCT, as well as people with a daily meditation practice of at least one year in a Buddhist tradition.

In fixation on the destination, we miss the journey, which is where life and love really are. We are always trying to get there, when here is where all life is. –  Jeff Foster