What makes us act, both in life and in meditation? In one sense, our actions have little consequence in a perspective that takes into account the age and size of the universe. Yet, we intuitively know that our actions are important, and our ability to reflect, choose a course of action and be mindful of that action sets us aside from most other beings.
I recently returned from 3 weeks’ retreat in Acem meditation. It was a retreat with very long meditations that allowed the meditators to explore new aspects of the mind. Periods where the mind wandered through thoughts and emotions regarding present and past life experiences were intermingled with more silent hours where the mind became quiet although awake and present. The long duration of the retreat allowed the experienced meditators to meditate “around the clock”
At a retreat with long meditations, your muscles relax, and your mind becomes more rested and ready for new challenges. Stimulating group discussions improve your technique, enhance the effect of meditating, and provide opportunities for existential reflection. The Meditation Blog gives you a calendar of upcoming retreats.
Some people have more than a life - they have a fate. Lorna Jeng has met with fortune, and misfortune, and fortune again. This summer she visited Scandinavia, where she travelled with her choir and participated in a summer course in Acem Meditation.