Relating to Ourselves and Others with the Heart of a Buddha

When we go on retreat and dive into silence and inner awareness we have the opportunity to recognize and release the habits of mind that limit our freedom and peace. Possibly the most challenging and important arena into which we bring our practice of mindfulness is relationships. While we may want to respond to our intimate relations, colleagues, friends and neighbors with authenticity and an open heart, relationships are often the context in which old reactive patterns are triggered.

In this retreat Daryl Lynn Ross and Jean Esther will explore how to be intimate with ourselves, and authentic and compassionate in how we relate with others. The retreat schedule will include sessions of mindful speaking and interaction as well as times of silence, all engaged in with a spirit of kindness. Sitting and walking meditation, teachings, mindful movement and discussions about practice will round out the retreat schedule. This retreat is open to all, and is not specifically designed for couples. Couples and individuals of all sexual and gender orientations are welcome. Please note: we ask that couples not share a room together.

Co-Teacher: Jean Esther

Jean Esther MSW began training in meditation in 1975. Since 1982, she has trained in the Buddhist Theradavan tradition with renowned senior lay teachers as well as Burmese and Western Monastics. She has engaged in intensive teacher training in both Vipassana practice and non-dual awareness. Her teaching is informed by over 35 years of practice as a psychotherapist integrating spiritual inquiry, psychological understanding and body awareness rooted in the ancient teachings of love and wisdom. Jean teaches at Insight Meditation Society in Barre, MA, Insight Meditation Center of Pioneer Valley in Western Ma, IBME teen retreats as well as various locations across the US and Canada.