Silent Insight Meditation Retreat 14-21.5.2023 in Kruusila, Finland: Leela Sarti

Practising with earth – awakening to our nature

Amidst the changing sands of experience, where do we find our ground?  In cultivating a quality of grounded wakeful presence that embraces each moment of our life with acceptance and wisdom, we can make intimate contact with the element of earth, the natural world, and the very nature of things, upon which our lives rest. The Buddha’s teachings are an invitation to know what it means to awaken in the midst of our life, to be deeply connected to our experience, and yet not bound by it. Insight Meditation practice will be supported by instructions, Loving-Kindness meditation, walking in nature, and regular meetings with the teacher.

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.

Teachings are offered mainly in English. The daily routine consists mostly of sitting and walking meditation and also includes instructions for meditation, an evening talk, a working period and a voluntary exercise of mindful movement. The retreat is held in silence except during individual or group interviews with a teacher.

The retreat includes a daily breakfast, lunch and light dinner, all vegetarian. Participants stay in 2-4 person rooms. The retreat will take place at the Friendship Inn, which is located in Kruusila, near Salo, on the shore of beautiful Lake Pernjärvi.

Who are the teachers?

Leela Sarti has been a student of the Buddha’s teachings and practices for more than 30 years. She lives with her family in Sweden, in the Stockholm archipelago, and in addition to teaching Insight Meditation retreats internationally, works individually with students in her practice in Stockholm, and these days over zoom. Leela has a masters degree in psychology and is a long term student and teacher trainee in the Diamond Approach Path. In her free time, Leela enjoys being out in nature; hiking, kayaking, riding and gardening.

The teacher will possibly be assisted by one of Nirodha’s lead instructors.

How much does it cost? How can I sign up?

The base price is 330 euros. It is also possible to pay more or less than this. More information about the price, registration and other details.

Warmly,

Lotta Hautamäki (+358 40 8442144), manager

Ulla Sillanpää (+358 40 536 4181), registrations