On the first morning of retreat we guide our bodies to be still and relaxed as a base for the mind to settle. We can use sounds, body sensations and the breath to gather our attention and start the training not to be lost in thought.
The meditation practices taught in the Insight movement trace their origins to the earliest known teachings of the Buddha. These discourses are part of the scriptures called the Pali Canon. This session offers an overview of the texts of the Pali Canon and some historical background on the development of Buddhism. We will also read some suttas (discourses) demonstrating different styles.
