Kalyāṇa-mittatā (Spiritual Friendship) and the Power and Challenge of Meditating Together

In this retreat we will meditate with each other – not side by side and separate, but fully engaged and truly meditating together. We will cultivate mindfulness, calm concentration, inquiry, energy, and other meditative qualities, interweaving Insight Dialogue, silent meditation, short periods of walking, and mindful movement. This is a chance to engage firsthand with the relational foundation of our humanity, and investigate the Buddhist concept of Kalyāṇa-mittatā or “spiritual friendship.” These practices support you to remain present with others even in difficulty, to encounter social eagerness or fear with greater ease, and to recognize natural wakefulness underneath conditioned habits.

We will be introduced step-by-step into the meditation guidelines of Insight Dialogue and will be guided into contemplation. Dharma reflections and time for sharing and Q & A will be provided.  The retreat will be held in noble silence, except during guided group dialogue and sharing.

For more information in German, please visit the Theravada School website.