The Strength and Challenge of Meditating Together: Introduction to Insight Dialogue

Insight Dialogue is an interpersonal meditation practice grown from the Vipassana tradition. Through dialogue the mindfulness and tranquility of traditional silent meditation is introduced into interaction with others. This enables us to perceive, understand, and apply an acceptance of others and ourselves in the busyness of our lives. As humans, we are creatures that are interrelated. As we awaken to this experience, insight, clarity, ease and joy flow into our relationship with others.

During this retreat we will meditate together – not next to each other – completely together and truly meditating. We will cultivate mindfulness, quiet concentration, the inquiring mind, energy and other meditative qualities through Insight Dialogue instruction, silent meditation, and a short period of walking meditation and mindful movement. It is an opportunity to connect us directly with the emotional level of our humanity. These exercises help us in difficult situations, bringing us ease during social unrest and fear and giving us the habits to become aware.

In Insight Dialogue we come into direct personal contact with the central human experiences. We will be guided step-by-step with the meditation of Insight Dialogue and familiar and guided contemplation. Dharma reflections and time for questions, answers, and exchange are scheduled.

To read about the retreat in German, visit the Choeling website.