Experience sharing

Personal reflection of April 27 2024 IMG one-day retreat

On April 27, 2024, I joined a one-day retreat held by DDM IMG at Degui Academy. The retreat began with the Eight-form Moving Meditation, which was quite helpful for the subsequent sitting session. After sitting, we practiced strecthing yoga. Unlike typical warm-up exercises and yoga, the focus for moving meditation and the yoga here is to use the "method." By applying the method, the alternation of motion and stillness really helped me become increasingly aware of the changes in my body and mind. 

However, there was a minor issue: during the unwinding yoga, we sometimes accidentally patted our neighbors because the space was too small to accommodate so many retreatants. It was not a big problem because our movements were gentle when doing the yoga. But during the walking meditation session in the afternoon, especially the fast-walking meditation, I initially felt concerned about bumping into someone. However, perhaps because everyone had been practicing mindfulness all morning, the fast walking meditation went smoothly despite the limited space. Even though everyone was moving quickly, the ambience in the room remained stable and calm, and the moment of immersion into the group was moving.

The one-day retreat was completed with a Q&A session, where a retreatant asked a question that I had also intended to ask: "How do we maintain the calmness and stability during the retreat when we return to our daily lives?" The Venerable did not immediately provide an answer. Instead, she encouraged everyone to share their ways to stay calm and peaceful in their daily lives, and many retreatants generously shared their tips and relevant resources. At that moment, I truly saw the benefit of participating in group practice as there is a supportive and inclusive community to turn to when needed. 

As an inexperienced meditation practitioner, I am grateful for the opportunity to participate in this retreat. Many thanks to Venerable Guo Chii, the volunteers, and all the co-retreatants for making it possible. 


Text written by Leah
Image provided by DDM