During this day of practice we will reconnect with the natural world and engage in contemplation in the heart of the living world in the full splendor of autumn. Our time together will include, sitting meditation, meandering and walking meditation, Qi Gong, mindful eating, deep relaxation lying on the earth, time alone in the woods and group sharing. Kaira Jewel and Thimo have studied and taught extensively in the outdoors and are happy to share this with the New York community.

The qualities of the Brahmavihāras - Kindness, Compassion, Joy, and Equanimity - can be developed in a way that is accessible and heart opening. Yet at times the practices to develop these qualities can feel dry and disconnected. In this Buddhist based retreat informed by the biological understandings of Organic Intelligence® we will explore these Brahmavihāras (divine abodes) outside in connection with place, with human and other-than-human nature.

Rāhula asked, “Venerable sir, how is mindfulness of breathing developed and cultivated so that it is of great fruit and great benefit?”

The Buddha replied, “Rāhula, develop meditation that is like the earth; for when you develop meditation that is like the earth, arisen agreeable and disagreeable contacts will not invade your mind and remain.”

When the Buddha’s son Rahula asked about mindfulness of breathing, the first practices the Buddha offered were practices on the elements – developing meditation like the earth, fire, water, air and space. During this week-long retreat, we will be offering practices to support the development of intimacy with the earth element and the freedom of simplicity of mind. We will explore how meditating with the earth brings great fruit and great benefit. Weather permitting, all practices will be held outside.