“It is that gladness connected with the wholesome that I call an equipment of mind…for developing a mind that is without hostility and without ill will.” ~The Buddha
The Buddha was known as “The Happy One.” However, the teachings often seem to emphasize working with suffering. Joy and happiness can seem frivolous or unspiritual even though joy is one of the Seven Factors of Awakening. In this retreat, we will practice with an emphasis on cultivating wholesome states to develop our natural capacity for well-being and happiness. Our own development of well-being and joy then becomes our gift to a troubled world.
The retreat includes silent sitting and walking periods with instructions and practice meetings with teachers, as well as some experiential exercises during the six days. This retreat is appropriate for both experienced as well as new/beginning students.
Practices will include:
Inclining the mind toward wholesome states;
The power of wholesome intention;
Mindfulness as appreciation practice (wonder and gratitude);
Embracing suffering as a path to joy;
How letting go leads to true freedom;
Integrity as a foundation for well-being;
Metta (loving-kindness) for self and others;
Mudita (sympathetic joy);
Compassion—the expression of a wise heart; and
The joy of simply being. | 
