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Retreat Dharma Talks

Metta (Lovingkindness) Research Retreat

This seven-day retreat cultivating the orientation of the mind towards good will and kindness emphasizes the meditation technique of the silent mental repetition of phrases of good will throughout the day, through all activities. The retreat will be held in silence, except for instructions, Dharma talks and personal meetings with teachers and will follow the traditional daily retreat schedule that alternates periods of seated meditation with periods of walking meditation.

The research component will measure psychological and biological changes and will require that participants agree to provide the necessary data and meet certain eligibility requirements. Also, to assure a balanced demographic for the testing, registration will be by application. Persons with all levels of practice experience (including no previous experience) are welcome to apply. Space is limited so early application is recommended.

2014-10-25 (8 days) Spirit Rock Meditation Center

  
2014-10-26 Initial Metta Instructions 14:15
Donald Rothberg
2014-10-26 Lovingkindness as the Key to Liberation 57:08
Sylvia Boorstein
This introduction to a Metta retreat presents the intention of practice (liberation and happiness), the techniques of practice, and the explanation for why these techniques work.
2014-10-28 How Metta Practice Works 58:42
Donald Rothberg
After exploring the nature of Metta practice, we focus on how Metta practice increasingly helps us to meet each experience with our awakened hearts; develop in concentration, go through a kind of purification and integration of mind, heart and body; open to our heart's depth and bring our practice out into everyday life and the world.
2014-10-29 Poison and Weapons and Fire Won't Harm Them 52:59
Sylvia Boorstein
This traditional element of the eleven benefits of metta is presented as a metaphor for the potential of unshakable equanimity and ease of the awakened mind.
2014-10-31 Widening Circles-Practicing Metta in Everyday Life, in the World 63:10
Donald Rothberg
We explore ways to bring the formal practice and spirit of metta(loving kindness) into our individual, relational and collective practice in the world; with some suggestions, poems and stories.
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