Frequently Asked Questions and more . . .
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Next Enlightenment Intensive November 5 - 9, 2010 Camp Indianola Registration |
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We entreat you to join us in this seriously devoted inquiry into Truth, Self and the Eternal. It is based on Zen Buddhism and modern psychology, and has ties many other spiritual traditions.
How do you benefit? Why should you attend?
The reported benefits are numerous: A breakthrough in your ability to listen to others; A freedom in your ability to communicate clearly and directly, Emotional and mental breakthroughs; Insights about self, life and relationships; Depth; More in touch with ones self; Better able to relate to others authentically; Levels of inner peace and stillness not previously experienced; An increased capacity for love, acceptance and forgiveness; Equanimity; and for a certain percentage-an enlightenment experience.
The Enlightenment Intensive Setting
Enlightenment Intensives are basically several day "retreats" where a specific contemplative discipline is followed. It is fully residential, starting with an introductory evening, 3 days of dyadic contemplation and other activities, and ending with an integrative morning. During this time a disciplined life style is adhered to, including a vegetarian diet and a very specific schedule of contemplations done in tandem with a dyad partner, where turns are taken between contemplation and communication of one partner and attentive listening by the other. It is intense, not necessarily easy, but the breakthroughs, insights, and most importantly the opportunity for enlightenment experiences are more enhanced in this discipline and technique than anywhere else.
What is Unique About this Approach? ...the Format and Energetics of an enlightenment intensive.
This approach has unique benefits for both those new to meditation and to experienced with meditation. First, by using a dyad format you are being attended to by a listening partner when you contemplate. This helps you focus on your contemplation. Then, you communicate to your partner whatever arose as a result of your contemplation to your listening partner. This may not yet be so much as an insight, let alone a satori or enlightenment experience, but by communicating what arises you will cleanse yourself of the clutter of mind-stuff-conditioning, past traumas, emotional burdens, etc. Second, as you switch to the role of listening partner you let go and transcend any mind-stuff that may be up for you and go beyond yourself in service by attentively listening to your partner who is now contemplating.This act of listening intently to another-as well as willingly contemplating and "sharing" your "results"-are acts of love. Finally, what is unique about using a dyad format for contemplation that is generative, the energy builds between the dyad partners, as well as everyone in the room, creating a synergetic generation of the very energy mentioned in Zen literature needed to breakthrough into an enlightenment experience.
Enlightenment intensives have been enjoyed by Christians, Buddhists, atheists and people from many, many other backgrounds. The enlightenment intensive is not designed with any intent to take anything away from your current religion or spiritual practice. The intent is to breathe newness into your spiritual life, whatever your background or current practice.
What do we contemplate? In an enlightenment intensive you will work on one of four "natural koans." Well known Koans are, "what is the sound of one hand clapping?" or "what was your face before your parents were born?" But we work on natural koans such as "Tell me who you are," "Tell me what you are," "Tell me what another (person) is," and "Tell me what Life is." They are called "natural" koans because by nature they hold a natural curiosity' they are questions we naturally ask ourselves in the course of life.especially at times of transition.
History of the Enlightenment Intensive. Enlightenment Intensives were first started in 1968 by Charles Berner who came upon the combination of working on eternal questions pondered by many faiths (and/or Zen koans), such as "What am I?" or "What is Life?," and modern methods that were known to increase intention and depth, such as dyad contact-a one-on-one communication method.
VIDEO: Charles Berner (Yogashwar) speaks about the beginnings of the 'Enlightenment Intensive'.
Registration
Space is limited so early registration is encouraged. Intensives are $380 (with an early registration price of $350) , which includes accommodations and meals. A $100 deposit will be required to register. We offer a 100% refund of your tuition if, at the end of the intensive, you have not found the experience to be of value.
Contact us for a brief interview and registration at (360) 320-0771.
View schedule
Download Registration Form (doc)
Enlightenment Intensives Links
These sites cover enlightenment intensives in great detail:
Frequently Asked Questions & More: www.godening.com/FAQ.htm
History: http://members.shaw.ca/murei/history.htm
General: www.lawrencenoyes.com/html/the_enlightenment_intensive.html
General: www.enlightenment-intensives.org.uk/eifaqs.html
FAQ's: www.swcp.com/~robicks/FAQs.htm
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