Falling into Peace: DDYP Chan Meditation Event Inspires Clarity and Wisdom in the Autumn Serenity

On September 17th, 2023, the Dharma Drum Vancouver for Young People (DDYP) Chan Meditation event attracted a group of approximately 20 young participants between 18 to 40 years old, who are eager to delve into the world of meditation. Held from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Dharma Drum Vancouver Centre, the event, guided by a resident venerable, unfolded in a carefully structured sequence, commencing with the establishment of three core values, moving into grounding through standing meditation, transitioning to the mesmerizing 8-Form Moving Meditation, and culminating with the exploration of various meditation postures and a period of deep sitting meditation.
 
The tranquil ambiance of the Chan Hall provided the perfect backdrop for an afternoon of self-discovery and inner peace. The venerable initiated the session by establishing the three core purposes of meditation: establishing relaxation, cultivating clarity, and gaining wisdom. These foundational principles served as the compass for participants' meditative journey, laying the groundwork for the transformative experience that was to come.
 
Grounding oneself amidst the chaos of daily life was the next step in the session, as attendees were guided through a brief standing meditation. Even a mere 1-2 minutes of this practice demonstrated its efficacy in providing a sense of stability during hectic days. Participants felt the immediate benefits of grounding, enabling them to connect with the present moment.
 
The event then transitioned to the centerpiece of the day—the 8-Form Moving Meditation. This dynamic practice allowed participants to experience meditation as a fluid, rhythmic process that seamlessly transitioned into stillness. Along with the demonstration done by a DDYP volunteer in front of the participants, the venerable provided voice guidance to the participants through the relaxed movements, encouraging them to embody mindfulness through motion.
 
Following the 8-Form Moving Meditation, participants were introduced to a variety of meditation postures. Comprehensive explanations and demonstrations of postures such as cross-legged, quarter lotus, half lotus, and full lotus were provided to the participants. Attendees were also guided on how to meditate while seated on a chair, emphasizing the adaptability of meditation practices to individual preferences and physical conditions.
 
The session continued with a period of deep sitting meditation, where the Chan Hall descended into a profound stillness. For 40 minutes, participants embarked on their individual journeys inward, their focus directed towards inner peace and self-discovery. Many reported a profound sense of relaxation, as if the burdens of daily life had momentarily lifted.
 
After the meditation session, the event concluded with a Q&A session with the resident venerable. Attendees had the opportunity to seek guidance on their meditation journeys, and the venerable's wisdom and compassion resonated deeply with the participants.
 
To conclude the event, each participant shared one sentence of reflection and what they had taken away from the session. The responses were varied but universally positive, reflecting the transformative power of meditation. The event had left attendees with a sense of inner peace, clarity, and wisdom that would undoubtedly continue to enrich their lives.
 
The DDYP Chan Meditation event on September 17th, 2023, proved to be a resounding success, offering attendees a structured path to inner peace and self-discovery. It served as a reminder that amidst the chaos of life, moments of stillness and wisdom are accessible to all.
 
If you missed this transformative experience, mark your calendar for our next session on November 26th, 2023, and join us for another journey into the profound world of meditation. For more information, please visit our website: https://reurl.cc/9RGKvx

Written by DDYP 2023.09.19
Photo: DDYP 2023.09.19