Lovingkindness as a path of liberation
Mettā, one of the boundless capacities of the heart, can be translated as lovingkindness, befriending, goodwill, in Finnish rakastava ystävällisyys or hyväntahtoisuus.
Mettā is a human birthright, and though it sometimes feels distant, invisible or buried, little by little we can cultivate hearts and minds that soften into unconditional warmth, well-wishing, and gladness. This retreat will offer creative avenues, including the flowing, poetic movements of qigong, to explore many facets of the nourishing, steadying, and liberating power of friendliness. Qigong is a form of mindful movement which many find supportive of insight meditation practice. It does not require particular levels of fitness and can be adapted for those with restricted mobility.
The retreat will consist of silent sitting and walking practice, meditation instructions, qigong, interviews with the teachers and dharma talks. 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 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 the teacher.
The retreat includes a daily breakfast, lunch and light dinner, all vegan. 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?
River Wolton River Wolton began attending Insight Meditation retreats in 2000, and subsequently helped to establish Sheffield Insight Meditation. She is a regular teacher at Gaia House, and a Bodhi College faculty member. She is currently completing qigong teacher training. River has led writing and arts projects for many years and is an activist in the LGBTQIA+ community. Her latest book is a creative exploration of the Brahma Viharas: The Subtle Art of Caring: A Guide to Sustaining Compassion
Sari Markkanen has practiced meditation on long retreats in Asia and Europe, especially in Gaia House, in the UK. Sari has completed Gaia House’s Community Dharma Leader programme and became an Insight meditation teacher under the guidance of Rob Burbea, Martine Batchelor and Caroline Jones. Previously, Sari has taught mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR), and mindfulness-based self compassion (MSC) practices and is a pioneer in teaching mindfulness practice to children. She has written two books related to children’s mindfulness and compassion practices. Nowadays, Sari is a full-time Dharma teacher.
How much does it cost? How can I sign up?
The base price is 230 euros, but it is also possible to pay more or less than this. Sign up for the retreat and find out more information about the price, registration and other practical details here.
Warmly,
Marianne & John Woodbury (registration), retriitit2@nirodha.fi
Laura Toropainen (manager)