The Modern Path of Classical Awakening
Half Day Retreat - Replay for Home Retreat
I like to ask students, "What kind of life do you want after stream entry?" and then work backwards from there to see what kind of awakening we should optimize for...
Retreat Registration
Registration is now closed for live participation, but you can still participate in the retreat through the playback. Please register below and you’ll receive an email with a recording of the retreat, optimized so you can experience the retreat on your own schedule.
About this retreat
There is a fascinating overlap between Shinzen Young’s extensive mindfulness system and the classical map of enlightenment found in the Progress of Insight (PoI). In this course we will explore the stages of insight outlined in the PoI, through the lens of Shinzen’s system. In particular, we look at the stages of purification as skills that can be endlessly developed, rather than simply benchmarks of our progress. If the skill is sharp enough, the stage arises naturally.
In traditional Mahasi practice, one would not drill down into a particular sensory area to sharpen a specific insight. But, one of Shinzen's major contributions was opening up the pallet of options so a meditator or teacher can create laser guided techniques, depending on the goal. In this case, the goal is deep clarity of the experience of the stages of the Progress of Insight. When I first began exploring the path of awakening, I did so through this dual lens, leaning heavily on Shinzen's highly detailed toolset and the Progress of Insight. Over time, I found Shinzen’s system invaluable for navigating myself and students through the classical maps of awakening.
In this retreat, we will explore two central pillars of the path of awakening. This retreat will work well for beginners or experienced meditators.
About Costs and Transparency: This retreat will be offered by donation only. We are offering this retreat as a way to support those who might not otherwise be able to participate in our programs. And, because of the luxury of a virtual format, we are able to do this with little overhead cost. That said, this retreat will be supported by three teachers and a technical support staff.
Your donations go to support these folks and to support our scholarship programs for other offerings.
And, we strongly encourage anyone who wants to attend to participate, whether or not you are in a position to offer a donation. Your practice is an offering that is remarkably valuable and we appreciate all of your efforts in practice.
Future Retreats and Courses
Want to hear when we launch our next retreat, or the next round of the Progress of Shinsight six-month course? Sign up for our email list and we’ll keep you posted.
Also, be sure to check out our free resources (guided meditations, videos and our livestream.)