This residential retreat will be suitable for both beginning and experienced meditators. Clear and simple instructions will be presented throughout the retreat and a longer discourse will be presented each evening. The retreat will be held in silence except for question and answer periods. Sitting meditation periods of 45 minutes will alternate with periods of walking meditation throughout each day.
Myoshin Kelley attended her first meditation retreat in 1975. She has practiced intensively with several renowned Buddhist meditation masters in the Theravada, Zen and Vajrayana traditions. She lived at the Insight Meditation Society for 15 years where she trained as a teacher. From 2003 - 2009 she was the teacher in residence at the Forest Refuge, the long-term practice center at IMS. She recently moved to Minneapolis to assist Mingyur Rinpoche in carrying forth his worldwide vision as an instructor.
Edwin Kelley began mediating in 1975 and has practiced in both the Theravada and Tibetan traditions. He was the executive Director of the IMS from 1996-2003. He recently moved to Minneapolis to be co-director and meditation instructor in Tergar International, the organization that oversees the activities of Yongey Mingyur Rinpoche. He is currently enrolled in a master's program in Buddhist Studies.
Myoshin and Edwin have been teaching together for the past three years.
The title of this retreat points to the emphasis on the kind of practice we will offer. We will incline towards strengthening qualities of mind that include receptivity, patience, gentle continuity of energy, faith, and radiant clarity. Rather than relying on techniques, we will learn to cultivate wise attitudes of practice, and at the same time to compassionately recognize when unhelpful attitudes are present. This kind of practice engenders a steadfast trust in ourselves, as well as in the natural emerging wisdom of our hearts.
Cost:: $450 which covers a single room and board and vegetarian meals, teacher transportation and other retreat expenses. In keeping with Theravada Buddhist tradition, there is no charge for the teachings; however, a donation (dana) to the teacher is encouraged.
Financial Assistance: Financial assistance is available through the retreat scholarship program. Contact Laura at 608-238-7376 or ljberger@tds.net to discuss what may be available.
Special Needs: To inquire about options for families and retreatants with children, contact Cindy at 608-220-4015. Childcare will not be provided. If you have special needs regarding food, accommodations, or mobility, contact Julie at juliemeyer@tds.net. To request or to offer a ride to the retreat contact Beth at bracette@gmail.com or 608-239-9790.
Registration: By mail only. Confirmation will be provided by email or U.S. mail. Click here for information on the facility, driving directions, and recommendations on what to bring. For questions about registration, contact Julie at 608-231-1558 or juliemeyer@tds.net
Deadlines, cancellation, and refund policy: Registrations will be on a first-received, space-available basis. To be certain you get a spot, please register early. After the retreat is fully registered, you will be placed on a waiting list. Those on the waiting list who do not get a spot will receive a full refund. All cancellations are subject to a nonrefundable $75 fee. Cancellations on or before February 20 will be refunded the retreat fee, less $75. Cancellations after February 20 will have the fee, less $75, refunded only if the spot can be filled from the waiting list.
To Register: The full payment of $450 is requested at the time of registration. Please send check and registration form to:
Madison Vipassana, Inc.
c/o Julie Meyer
3914 Birch Ave.
Madison, WI 53711
