Concentration, (samādhi), the collection and unification of the mind, was emphasized by the Buddha as one of the aspects of the Eightfold Path. It can bring joy to your practice and lead to the skillful use of pleasure in the meditative process. Whatever your level of practice, you can improve your Insight Meditation (vipassanā) by strengthening your concentration skills. Your ability to concentrate will develop in response to the attention you give it.
This retreat will offer a series of techniques for staying on the meditation object for extended periods of time. We will explore the factors of concentration that lead to the deep absorption states known as jhanas. Teachers will also give instruction for utilizing concentration during Insight practice. |