Breaking Free of Habits
During this retreat Martine will look at the habits that bind us and stop our potential for wisdom and compassion manifesting fully. We will explore the meditative tools found in the vipassana tradition like mindfulness of the breath, sounds and feeling tones to show how we can engage creatively with our habits and transform them into positive functions.
The meditation techniques we practice are over 2,500 years old and are mostly based on the Theravada Buddhist tradition. Taking part in the retreat does not, however, require an adherence to Buddhism or any adaptation of personal faith.
Why take part in the retreat? What happens on a retreat?
The retreat is suitable for both beginners and experienced practitioners. Beginners have a chance to become familiar with basic meditation techniques and to see their effects clearly in practice, so a retreat is a good way to begin a meditation practice. For experienced meditators, a retreat is a great opportunity to deepen and clarify their practice under the guidance of qualified teachers.
The retreat is held in English. The days are spent in silence and consist of sitting and walking meditation, dharma talks, work period, small group discussions and individual interviews. Vegetarian breakfast, lunch, and a light dinner are served during the retreat. The retreat will take place at the Friendship Inn, which is located in Kruusila, near Salo, on the shore of beautiful Lake Pernjärvi.
Who is the teacher?
The retreat will be taught by Martine Batchelor. She lived in Korea as a Zen nun under the guidance of Master Kusan for ten years. She is the author of Meditation for Life, The Path of Compassion, Women in Korean Zen and Let Go: A Buddhist Guide to Breaking Free of Habits. Martine Batchelor is a member of the Gaia House Teacher Council. She teaches meditation retreats worldwide and lives in France. Her latest work is the The Spirit of the Buddha.
How much does it cost? How can I sign up?
The retreat is full. You may sign up for the waiting list by filling in the registration form. Don’t pay the registration fee! The base price is 165 euros, but it is also possible to pay more or less than this. More information about the price, registration and other details here.
Warmly,
Tuulikki Hukka (+358 50 432 9241)
Elli Leppänen (elli.leppanen@aalto.fi)