Vipassana Meditation Course Review
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I’ve been back for a full two days now from the Vipassana Meditation retreat, and I’ve been taking some time to reflect on my overall experience. I’ve come to the conclusion that it was incredible.
I didn’t realize this when the course had completed because there was so much information floating around in my head, but now that most of that has quieted down I can view the experience objectively. This post may be a bit long because it’s meant to serve as a review of the course. Please bear with me!
Some Background Information
Not only did I learn a wonderful technique over the course of 10 days. I learned Dhamma, the art of living, as taught by the Buddha. Although Vipassana is a technique developed by the Buddha, it is completely non-sectarian, non-religious, and universal. Anyone can utilize the practical application of the technique, and anyone can expect to obtain the same universal benefits.
At my course there was an array of blacks, whites, asians, indians, Christians, Hindus, Muslims, etc. The purpose of Vipassana is to transmit experiential knowledge of Truth by giving you the opportunity to directly experience Truth within the framework of your body. As you can imagine, this is powerful stuff that can change lives.
The course is taught with a series of audio and video cassette tapes of S.N. Goenka, the primary teacher of the materials. Along with Goenka, there is one male and one female assistant teacher assigned to the course. They are there to clarify any confusion students may have, and to guide the progress of the course.
Arrival
When I first arrived at the course, I was nervous and didn’t know what to expect. Were the people going to be friendly, loving, and compassionate as I expected them to be? Was it going to be a cult-like gathering with a bunch of people wearing loin cloths and sporting thick unkempt beards?
I was pleasantly surprised when I walked into a registration room full of normal looking people, and was greeted by a nice lady. I filled out a “New Student Form,” was given a room number, and was asked to go and settle into my room. This is also when I gave the lady all of my valuable personal belongings, such as my phone, wallet, and car keys (so I couldn’t escape later).
I proceeded to my room, and there was already a gathering of students in the hallway. I got a chance to meet most of them, and I noticed that these weren’t ordinary people. These were exceptional people. They were very open minded, and many of them had done some really cool things (running marathons, traveling the world, attending personal development seminars, etc). I was savoring my right to talk, because this was the last talking I would be doing for the next 10 days.
After our hour long chat session, we made our way to the male dining hall where the course orientation was being held. At the orientation we were told the rules of the facility, and the rules of the program in general. There were certain course boundaries we were not supposed to cross for our own protection (this place was in the middle of nowhere and there was known to be dangerous wildlife abound). Also, there were male and female boundaries to prevent us from interacting with the opposite sex. This made sense because that sort of interaction would create a huge distraction in our meditation efforts. At this time we were also informed of the daily timetable, and were told that if we wanted to get the maximum benefit out of the course we were to adhere to the timetable strictly.
Daily Timetable
Wake up bell: 4:00am
Meditate in the hall or in your room: 4:30-6:30am
Breakfast and rest: 6:30-8:00am
Group meditation in the hall: 8:00-9:00am
Meditate in the hall or in your room: 9:00-11:00am
Lunch and rest: 11:00am-1:00pm
Meditate in the hall or in your room: 1:00-2:30pm
Group meditation in the hall: 2:30-3:30pm
Meditate in the hall or in your room: 3:30-5:00pm
Tea break: 5:00-6:00pm
Group meditation in the hall: 6:00-7:00pm
Evening discourse: 7:00-8:15pm
Final group meditation: 8:15-9:00pm
Lights out: 9:30pm
As you can see, there’s a TON of meditation and not much time for anything else. I was already aware of the schedule before arriving, so I wasn’t surprised. But some of the other students had a look of “what the hell have I gotten myself into?” on their face. After all of the instructions were given, we made our way to the meditation hall, and as soon as we stepped inside, the silence for the course began.
Meditation instructions were given at this first meditation. I remember sitting and thinking, “easy enough!” Since the orientation took up so much time, our evening meditation only lasted for about 30 minutes. After this we were dismissed and had 30 minutes to get ready for bed. I wasn’t used to going to bed at 9:30, so I didn’t fall asleep until about midnight. Almost as soon as I fell asleep, I was abruptly woken up by the morning bell at 4:00am. I thought to myself, “oh %&#$, this is going to be terrible!”
My Daily Experience
The first day was extremely intense. No one is used to meditating for 11 hours a day (unless you’re a monk, then it’s a breeze), so my body was constantly having to make adjustments. My body wasn’t too happy with the adjustments it was having to make, so it gave me a hard time. As the days passed it became more cooperative, and I was able to obtain some incredible results by the end of the course.
I followed the daily timetable scrupulously, observed all of the rules to the tee, and made full use of the theoretical information transmitted in the daily evening discourse. If you plan on attending the course, make sure you do the same so you can obtain the best results possible in the short 10 day period.
The only time I broke silence was to talk with an assistant teacher. At noon, students are allowed to set up an interview, and are permitted to quietly ask the teacher any questions they have about the teachings. This was highly beneficial for me because there were many theoretical aspects of the technique I didn’t understand that I wanted to get clear on. The teacher was quite knowledgeable, as he had been practicing Vipassana for 35 years! I found that understanding why everything works the way it does helped me obtain better results from the practical application of the technique. In the end I realized how wonderful the system really is.
The Verdict
I won’t go into details about the technique because I’m nowhere near qualified enough to teach it, and I don’t want to give anyone the wrong idea. I will, however, comment on the quality of the teaching and the effectiveness of the program design.
Over the years, hundreds of thousands of people have attended a Vipassana meditation camp, just like me. And over those years the people who designed the program have constantly worked to perfect it so that students can obtain even better results. My experience was nearly flawless, and everything I was told I would obtain by the end of the course I obtained.
I have to give the Vipassana Academy credit for creating such a fine tuned, effective method to alleviate the human race of its pains and miseries. I can confidently say that every student who signs up for a 10 day program will obtain tangible results at the end of the course if they give the technique a fair trial by observing all the rules and recommendations.
Here are some of the benefits I received by attending the course:
- Freedom from pain and misery, and the ability to prevent myself from causing any future pain or misery in my life
- The ability to maintain a balanced mind in ANY situation, regardless of how great or how bad it may be
- Strong compassion for my fellow beings, human or otherwise. So much so that I’m now a vegetarian (and I was a hardcore meat eater before the course began)
- Stopped drinking alcohol
- The ability to apply an intense focus to any task I wish to accomplish
- The discipline to follow through with any task I wish to accomplish
- A better understanding of Truth as it applies to the nature of our reality, and the nature of our being
- The confidence one gains when he/she accomplishes something momentous (it feels like I just finished climbing Everest)
In the short period of 10 days I somehow managed to acquire all of these benefits, and many of the other students were able to say the same (I know because I talked to them after the course.) I strongly recommend that everyone take a course because I know it will be life-changing for any individual.
If you do decide to go, make the commitment to yourself to stay for the entire 10 days no matter what. A few students left in the middle of the course, and I’m sure they all regret it now. If you ever find yourself questioning some of the practices during the middle of the course, be patient. I assure you by the end you will understand exactly why everything is set up the way it is.
All in all, I can’t recommend the course strongly enough. I believe every human being should give it a try and see for himself/herself how much this technique can improve his/her life. If you’re closed minded to the idea of taking a chance with a 10 day course, remember, it’s only 10 days. After that you’re back to your normal life, but with a new experience under your belt.
Also, Vipassana meditation is non-sectarian, non-religious, and universal. No one will try to convert you, and you won’t be subjected to any sort of sequestration or indoctrination. With that in mind, give it a try! See for yourself what all the buzz is about. I assure you in the end you’ll be glad you gave Vipassana a chance.
If you have any specific questions at all regarding the course, don’t hesitate to contact me or post a comment below. Also, if you’re interested in learning more about the course, please check out http://www.dhamma.org
Update 12/19/2011: Please read through the comments section below for additional information on the Vipassana Retreat experience.
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Sounds amazing! As I gave up alcohol and meat eating a few years ago, I feel comfortable with that aspect; but i know my challenge will be sitting with myself, my body…all that goes on inside for 10 full days. I look forward to the experience, challenge, and serenity someday….Thank you for your articles always…
~ Lauren
Lauren,
I’m glad you’re planning on going, and you’re very welcome for the article!
I think you’ll find the experience incredible, as did I. You’ll be able to handle it just fine. It would definitely be difficult for someone who was not ready for it mentally or spiritually, but from the sounds of it, it sounds like you’re ready! Please let me know how it goes whenever you complete the course.
This sounds like it was a good time!
-your vipassana brother
Ah very interesting experience here. I imagine it must be very difficult to meditate for such long periods of time. Did you find yourself increasing with restlessness, or gaining more peace and wanting to go another few days?
It actually wasn’t that difficult to meditate for such long periods of time. The course is structured in such a way that your mind stops wandering, and you go deep enough into the meditation so that you lose a sense of time. There were a few meditations were three hours passed by in what seemed like minutes. Really cool experience.
Towards the end I did feel like it was never going to end, but I stuck it out and kept my focus until the very last day. I attained some awesome results.
Thanks for the comment! If you’ve got any other questions let me know.
Thanks for the review. I start the course tomorrow, and was looking for others’ experience. I’ve read both good and not-so-good reviews…not sure if I’m more ready to go now or less.
Congrats on making the commitment to go. Make sure that you’ve made the decision that you’re going to stick it out NO MATTER WHAT. Don’t leave when you get there no matter what, I assure you that at the end there is a reward. Good luck!
I also completed a 10 days Vipassana course three months ago and I’ve to say that it was one of the best thing I did for my life. A most pragmatic tool that permanently changes one’s life for ever surely and slowly. I’m happily reporting that I am still practicing my twice daily one hour sitting which is the most important thing in my every day life. It has brought me the balance of the mind in the midst of chaos of living. metta to all.
Thanks for the review. I have been thinking about doing a course for the past month. My primary reason for that is I would like to know myself better, what I want in life, calmness of mind. The big one though is self-assurance or confidence. I think I do lack confidence although I know I do fine. Do you think this course helps you gain confidence long term. Its a little bit objective but …Would appreciate your reply.
@ Dhamma brother – Thank you for sharing your experiences here. They will be most helpful to readers. Also, congratulations on keeping up with the daily sittings. They are crucial, to say the least.
@ Satya – Over the 10 day course you can definitely make significant progress in all of the areas you listed. Once you leave the course is when you will begin the major work, however. Vipassana is “insight” meditation, and will most certainly help you get to know yourself better. The key is to keep up the practice once you leave the 10-day course. I wish you the best of luck, and please let me know how your course went once you’re back.
I’m going to do the course on this Dec 9 at Kaufman ,TX. I want to improve myself to handle any problem/activity in life(hopefully this course would help). I have some question regarding your experienced.
1. Did you do 10-day course at this center? If so ,is it safe there specially for a girl?
2. Is the bedroom is for individual or for a group(by how many people)?
3. In the case I want to leave before complete the course ,what do I need to do or would happen?
3. What could I bring to the bedroom beside your clothes,blanket.?
Thank you for your review and reply in advance.
Nikki,
1. I did do a 10 day course, and yes it is totally safe there for women.
2. All women have their own room with a bathroom attached for privacy.
3. If you wanted to leave you would need to talk with the course manager about your concerns. I strongly recommend that you make the decision NOT to leave no matter what before attending the course, however. No matter how difficult it may be, it’s important that you complete it. You’ll understand the reasoning behind the procedure at the end of the course.
4. Bring sheets for a twin sized bed, definitely a blanket because it’s going to be cold, and bring a couple of pillows so that you can meditate comfortably in your room.
If you have any additional questions, please don’t hesitate to contact me directly using the contact form on my website.
Thanks a lot for your quick response. I appreciated it.
I ‘m very determined to complete the 10 day course. Just wonder such in case of emergency that I need to leave.
By the way, I forgot to ask you one more question,which about donation.
How to donate and by how much should it be? What would happen if a meditator leave without any donation?(just curious)
Again, Thanks for your reply.
P.S. I m impressed that youngter like you interested in this journey. I hv read some of your articles in your website, you have the different perspective toward life from other youngster i know outhere. I’m really impressed and will read your other articles.
Nikki – Thank you for the compliments
I’m just trying to understand the way things really work down here.
A donation is by no means mandatory. If you feel like you received value from the program, then you can make a donation in any amount. There are no repercussions if you leave without making one.
I wish you the best of luck on your 10 day journey. I’m confident you’ll find it insightful and beneficial in many ways.
Hi, do they provide cushions for meditating on or are students meant to bring their own?
Michael – They will supply you with a LOT of cushions, so don’t worry about bringing your own.
Hi Rahul
Thanks for sharing your experience. I had done Vipassana meditation course of 10 days in Igatpuri near Mumbai in year 2001. The benefits were excellent , it changed my orientation towards life. I hvae been doing meditation practice for very short duration since then as i am on consulting job and have been travelling alot.
I am looking for a group , wherein i can join and continue my practice of longer duration ( 1- 2 hrs.) in Sugarland Area.
Pls share the address and other details in Sugarland/Houston.
Kamlesh – Thank you for stopping by! I no longer live in Sugar Land, so I am not familiar with the local practice groups. You can look them up on the Vipassana website: http://dhamma.org by logging into the members area.
Hi Rahul, Thank you for this review! I am planning on taking a 10 day course in California at the end of the month and was reading about other people’s negative experiences and it made me a little bit apprehensive and hesitant about my decision. I am determined to complete the 10 days, and it is encouraging to read about people who have been through it and have found it to be rewarding. Thanks again.
Susanne
Susanne,
Please do drop by and let me know how your retreat goes. I’m sure you’ll find it awesome.
Hi Rahul, I’m so glad you have this available to people who are considering the experience of Vipassana. I am scheduled to go at the end of this month. I have one concern that perhaps you could provide your opinion on……. the course I am attending will apparently have some loud construction occuring during the entire 10 day retreat. They have advised us that we will hear the construction, voices, machinery, etc. but that we should still have a valuable experience. My question to you is, if this was the environment when you did your retreat, do you think it would have been a major distraction to you and somehow lessened your experience? I was considering bringing earplugs (the small foam ones that you roll between your fingers before placing in your ears) but was also unsure if that would be improper. Do you have any thoughts on this? Many thanks!
Laurie – You’re very welcome! Thanks for dropping by and asking your questions. In my opinion, the quality of the course would be affected by loud construction noise. One of the best things about the course (at least the location I went to) was the serenity and peacefulness of the surrounding environment. If you must go to this course, then I think the earplugs are a great option. They are in no way improper. They won’t take away from your learning or anything like that. Enjoy your retreat, if you decide to go, and let me know how it goes for you!
Hi,
Would you recommend this course for a person who has never done any meditation? Can this be a good start or rather too much of a challenge in such case? Maybe it would be better to prepare somehow (how?). I have had this (=vipassana course) in my mind for a long time but I am afraid this could be too hard to complete. I cannot get myself to regular meditation while at home.
All the best,
Marcela
Marcela,
When I signed up for Vipassana I had only done minimal meditation prior to going. When I first got there, I couldn’t sit up straight for more than 5 minutes without having to relax my back/legs. By the end of the course I could sit for an endless amount of time. It will be challenging regardless of if you have experience or not. 11.5 hours of meditation a day is a lot of time. But you will be fine if you decide before hand that you will be fine.
If it’s something that’s been on your mind for a while, I definitely recommend that you do it. Your intuition won’t lead you wrong. It will be a lifechanging experience!
Helo,
I hope I’ll overcome my fears and take the chance, you helped me a lot with this, thanks!
Laurie, I am interested to know if the noise bothered you when you were there. I am going in August, and I am anxious about this.
Hey Rahul,
Great to read this information. I am heading up to North Fork tomorrow to start my 10-Day retreat… going through a wave of emotions today and last night… excited and scared to start tomorrow! Your words have brought a sense of calm to me.
@ Andrew – I’m glad my words have brought a sense of calm to you. You will be fine, don’t worry. Embrace the feelings of anxiety. It’s going to be an awesome experience.
Here are a few tips that should help you get more value from your experience:
1. Decide that no matter what you will finish the full 10 days. Once you’ve resolved it in your mind beforehand, you won’t waste your mental energy contemplating it while you’re there.
2. Pay very close attention to all the details of the process, from how you’re living, to how you spend your breaks, to how specific the schedule is. At the end of the course you’ll understand why everything is the way it is.
3. Pay close attention to the evening discourses. While this may seem like the most boring part of the process, it’s crucial. By understanding what Goenka is saying in the discourses, you will be able to interpret your experiences 100x better, and will be able to achieve better results because of it.
4. Give the retreat 100% of your effort, and I promise you that you will make tremendous breakthroughs. Push yourself and don’t allow yourself to become complacent. Follow the schedule rigorously. Try to eat a light meal in the morning (this will make your meditation more comfortable). And most important of all, go all out on the meditations. Hold yourself to the highest standards.
Remember, it’s only 10 days. After that you’ll be back in the normal world, and it’s nearly impossible to simulate the serene environment at Vipassana while out in your everyday life. Obtain as much value as you can while you’re there.
Hi Rahul,
I will be going for my Vipassana in 10 days from now at Igatpuri in India, I want some suggestion from you and I know you will revert as can see from above posts.
1. I am sure during the course of time one will come across feeling about quitting the course at that very moment, what should one do to overcome it.
2. My sole puprose for going in for the course is to get some clarity in personal life and to have courage to stand by my decisions, will I get that?
3. I hope one does not becomes a monk after the course, this was the 1st question my wife asked when I told her about my enrollment.
4. Will the learnings from course get diminshed in time if one does not put in with regular medidation post the course is over.
Thanks in advance buddy.
Mandeep,
I’ll answer your questions in order.
1. Decide ahead of time that no matter what you will not leave. Many people do have the urge to leave somewhere in the middle of the course, but remembering it’s only 10 days and that you already decided beforehand you will not leave will help you overcome this urge. I assure you that you will regret it if you do leave. It’s only 10 days, and you owe it to yourself to give it a fair trial. Afterward if you want to give it up, feel free to do so.
2. You will gain clarity on your personal life and from that you will find the courage to stand by your decisions. The clarity will come from the stillness you cultivate through the practice of Vipassana. You won’t be doing any thinking, and that’s a good thing because thinking rarely solves the problems you’ve created for yourself. Observation and detachment do the trick, however.
3. You will only become a monk if you decide to become a monk. I don’t know of anyone personally who has decided to become a monk after taking the course. That’s a serious life decision and I think one would need to attend more than just a 10 day course to make that kind of decision.
4. Whatever you gain during your 10 days at the course cannot be taken away from you and is permanent. Continued practice is recommended so you can continue to gain similar benefits into perpetuity, but there are many other ways to reap the same rewards. It’s been nearly 3 years since I completed my course and the effect it had on my life is extremely clear to me. I was never the same after I returned.
If you have any other questions let me know, and thanks for reaching out to me.
Hey,
Thanks Buddy for the ultra fast response.
Will definately get in touch with you for more questions, however are you aware about any social networking group where I can read more on experience of others.
Rgds/ Mandeep
Hi Again Rahul,
Have been going through your blog for about 15 minutes now & found it out to be pretty interesting, will take out some time over the wkend to read it in detail.
On a lighter note… ur profession is making me think about mine
Good luck in helping the guys answer the million dollar question…. What do women want?
Rgds/ Mandeep
Mandeep,
You’re welcome, my friend. I’m not aware of any social networking groups where you can read more about the experience of others.
What are you reconsidering about your profession?
What do women want is the million dollar question indeed. I’m on my way to figuring it out.
Thanks Buddy.
Do also let me know when you are sucessful in knowing what women want
Rgds/ Mandeep
hey Rahul..i am going through depression, many times i thought not to live in this world..its all about love.. i am not able to make my mind stable nor even i am concentrating on my business.. I have applied for Vipassana Meditation..And now i want to live my life
Mohanish – Congratulations on taking proactive steps to gain control over your internal state and your life! I hope you enjoy the retreat. Please do come back and let me know how it went.
Greetings Rahul!
I’m really happy to see you posted a review on this. Everything you’ve written about your experience seems to be all that I wish to get from such a course and more! I have a friend who’s in the middle of the course right now. Ever since he told me about it I’ve been very interested. I’ve been interested in meditation for quite some time now; I’ve obtained a few books on it. I don’t really have any experience meditating, I try here and there but I find it very difficult to quiet my mind; I have a lot of layers in there, you know?
I’d really appreciate it if you would answer some of my questions:
-Do you think I’d be able to get through this course with no first hand experience in meditating?
-Do you feel that this experience enhanced your creativity? Any examples?
-Looking at the schedule; it seems you only eat twice a day. Did you have any difficulties managing that?
-I’ve done a fair amount of mind altering substances. Will that render me unqualified for this retreat?
-Finally, I almost didn’t post this question because it seems silly but I’d really like to read your opinion on it. I’d like to partake in this course sooner rather than later. However, I have a vacation planned in Hawaii with my siblings and cousins this June. I’m really looking forward to this vacation. If I partook in this retreat before said vacation, do you think it would hinder my vacation experience? As I may be distracted from my meditation by all there is to do. Or should I wait until after this vacation to apply for the course? Also, my siblings and cousins are excited to go out to the bars and some parties with me there. I’m wondering if this retreat would render me incapable of attending such places and having the same fun as them.
Sorry for that last one.. I hope it makes sense.
I sincerely appreciate your time and I look forward to your response!
Thx
-Mark
Mark – So glad you found the review useful. I’ll take your questions in order.
1. I had almost no experience meditating before I got to the retreat, and when I got there I wasn’t able to sit up straight for longer than 5 minutes. By the end of the course, however, I could sit up straight for hours upon end without a problem. You’ll be fine.
2. I’m not sure that it enhanced my creativity. I don’t recall noticing that. I was muuuuuch more focused, however.
3. Eating twice a day was totally fine by me. You get a lot of energy from the meditation and I highly recommend you eat a light meal in the morning, otherwise it will interrupt your meditation. I made this mistake a few times and I always wished I hadn’t, lol.
4. Just be sure to not take any mind-altering substances 2 weeks prior to the course and you’ll be fine.
5. When you return from the retreat you’ll be in an altered state of mind. You will be much more serene and focused than you were went you went in. I’d say go for the vacation, and then take the course as to not impinge upon the heightened state of awareness you will have upon returning from Vipassana. It’s not a ridiculous question. It’s actually an excellent question. Good for you for asking. Also, when I returned from Vipassana I chose not to drink for quite a while. It gave me a whole new perspective on the bar/nightclub scene. Don’t worry, going to Vipassana won’t turn you into a monk. You can still operate in reality, albeit with a broader perspective.
Let me know if you have any more questions, and thanks for dropping by.
I did not have so much time to look over your blog, but i think i will do soon.
i personally preparing my body and mind us much us i can, though in the 23 i start the 10 days retreat in Lampoon Thailand, i find this work very special in here, thanks brother for sharing,
proud
Antonis Raptis
Hellas
Antonis – Thank you for stopping by and commenting! Enjoy your retreat. If possible, let me know how it was when you return.
Hi, I have enrolled for 10 day course at Dharmshala. But I am confused whether to go or not? All I have learnt is that youhave to sit and meditate and that I can do on my own too. Why do I need a guide for that.. I have tried Isha yoga, Coimbatore but of not much help. I think untill and unless I myself look inside and put efforts… there is no point joining various meditation courses… What you say?
Hi
I am s/w engg. I am planningto do this course in this or next month. i am from mumbai. which center do u recommmend. i am not able to concentrat for more than 30 min in work, bcz of some continus thinking going in mind, this causing lots of stress. bcz my profession required intense concentration and calm mind. can i expect good result or solution on this problem after completing this course.
Pradip – I can’t recommend a center to you as I have not seen them/experienced them myself.
Yes, going through a Vipassana course should help you with your ability to focus for longer than 30 minute periods. It’s something you will use for the rest of your life. Not only that, it’s something that will change your life for the better permanently. Go for it, and let me know how it goes for you once you’re done.
Thank you for your comment.
Hi Rahul,
I will take the liberty & recommend to Pradip on centres, apologies for the same buddy.
Pradip,
I would personally recommend the centre in Igatpuri (near Nashik) for taking the course for simple reasons that:-
1. It is oldest & first centre in India
2. Probably the biggest in world
3. Away from city clutter in natural surrounding
4. Very good facilities for meditation (I liked it)
5. Teachings are same in all the centres
However if u wish to go closer home then the centre in Gorai (near Borivali) is the option, but the focus in Gorai centre is on ‘Corporate Vipassana’.
Regarding your issue on lack of focus, even I had similar sort of challenges, I did teh course 1.5 months back and it did help me a lot… .. I have not pactised the meditation techniques since coming out of the centre..but can still feel the changes within me pre & post the course.
On personal side would give you the same advice which Rahul came…. Take the course seriously & no matter what complete the entire 10 days.
If u still wish to know more than call me on 92231 00813 (i am from amchi Mumbai:)
Rahul,
thanks for your promtp response. I will definetly let u know , after attending course.
Mandeep,
Thanks for your reply.
There are two centre Dhamma Tapovana Meditation Centre and Dhamma Giri Meditation Centre, which one of this you are talking about?
Pradip,
Both are in the same area, for new students it is Dhamma Giri…. Dhamma Tapovan is for old students.
Rgds/ Mandeep
Hi Rahul,
I will be embarking on this journey in a few days myself. I was just wondering if you felt the need to leave at any point during your 10 days and how you coped with it?
Also as Mark mentioned previously, does this experience (or did it in your case) perhaps interfere with your previous lifestyle. You said you stopped drinking after you took the course. Was this because you felt something was perhaps wrong with the idea of alcohol and those that consume it or was this because you felt no attraction to it?
Thanks!
NoName
Sorry I forgot to add
As I go to the gym quite regularly and try to run daily, I was wondering if the no exercise policy interfered with your energy levels. Did you ever feel lazy at any point in time? If so, how did you cope with all of that.
And how did you manage to avoid communicating with people, even if it was merely eye contact, did that perhaps distract you in anyway? Did people who may not have taken their time there seriously, impact you in anyway?
I did feel a strong desire to leave on Day 6, but that was also the day I had a major breakthrough.
The experience did not interfere with my previous lifestyle. It enhanced my lifestyle and still serves me to this day.
I stopped drinking for an extended period of time because I didn’t like feeling like I was not in control of my desires. I gave it up to show myself that I was in control.
Thank you for your questions!
I had awesome energy levels the whole time. So much so that I only slept 4 hours a night and felt totally rested for the most part. All the meditation generates a lot of energy.
I had no problem avoiding communication with others. It’s easy when everyone is on the same page. Everyone at my course took their time there seriously. If you’re willing to commit to 10 days of silence and meditation, you’ve gotta be pretty damn serious about it, lol.
Hi Rahul,
First off, thanks for sharing your experience. It was extremely insightful. I will be attending a retreat in a couple of weeks for the first time. I have two major questions;
1) I am attending this retreat with a friend. It is a male friend, so I know that we will be separated. But I’m wondering if you noticed a lot of people at your retreat attending in pairs or groups, or if you think that could possibly hinder the experience?
2) My friend is a heavier set guy, and I know that he is super concerned about the extended sitting. I’ve told him that the centres will provide chairs to meditate in but he’s determined to floor sit like everyone else so he doesn’t stand out. Did anyone meditate in a chair at your retreat? And were there any heavier people?
Thanks for dropping by and leaving a comment.
To answer your questions, it shouldn’t be a problem to attend with a friend. Lots of people come up together, but you won’t acknowledge them and since he’s a guy you will rarely even see him at all. You will both be fine.
A few people did sit in chairs. If he finds it too difficult to sit on the floor he can always move. I think he should be fine. It will be a great opportunity for him to transcend the labels of pain/limitation created by his mind. I don’t recall if there were many heavyset people at my course, but I’m sure there were at least a couple.
Let me know if you have any other questions.
does vipassana help to cure depression and migraine?
Hi, My Name is Nyambura Macharia I live in Kenya. I applied for the 10 day course in my country and i got accepted, i will be attending soon. Meditation isnt something that is popular in my country, in fact most people associate it with satanic practices, which is a sad thing because it means people like me who have a awareness of the importance of connecting with your higher self dont get many opportunities to grow and learn the necessary techniques. I was over joyed when i found out about the 10 day course right here at home. Thank you for sharing your experience, i am looking forward to attending and after i do i will be back here to ask you questions, for now i want to keep an open mind and have no expectations.
The main teacher of the course, S.N. Goenka, used to have unbearable migraines and he started practicing Vipassana as a last resort to resolve his migraine issues. 10 days later he was migraine free! I don’t know if this a result that everyone can expect, but I am quite sure it should help. Give it a try and you can find out the truth for yourself.
Thank you for reaching out and sharing your story, Nyambura! It is a shame that meditation is looked at that way in your country, and I think it’s amazing that you have the courage to sign up for such a course and go for it anyway. Congratulations on making that happen! Please do share your experience with the other readers and I when you return. I look forward to hearing back from you.
Hi
My son lives at home and will be taking the course shortly. I have been through a difficult time, which he has had to live through its affect on me. I am concerned that I do not spoil things for him when he returns. Having done a bit of reading on the course, I am very interested to attend and wonder if the course will help me find myself and in addition bring harmony back to both of us. We are very close but have been through a testing time over the last few of years.
I take prescribed medication. Will I keep and administer this myself at the retreat and if not what is the procedure?
Your response will be appreciated,
The course will definitely help you out with whatever issues you are facing. Of that much I am sure. With regards to the prescription meds, you’ll have to contact the Vipassana center directly and find out how you will handle that. Thank you for your comment and I do hope you decide to go!
Many thanks Rahul for getting back to me with your positive response.
Hi Rahul,
I’ve read through your whole website and found it very helpful. I am in Sri Lanka studying Buddhism and teaching English and was on the fence about taking this course but your comments have really helped and i signed up to take the course today, but i have two questions if you wouldn’t mind answering them.
1. Did you find that your social interactions with friends, loved ones and partners were immediately altered by this experience? If so, how?
2. Did you find that your personality changed after the duration of the course?
Thank you!
My social interactions did change in that I was more even-minded and compassionate when interacting with others . I had much more patience and was much less reactive to the way people were treating me. This was a great thing. This is also how my personality changed. I was more centered, equanimous, and nonreactive overall. Because of this, instead of reacting to external stimulus in a negative way, I could choose to act from a place of love or compassion instead.
Does this answer your questions? Thank you for your comment, and I’m so glad you decided to take the course. I’m confident you’ll gain a lot from it!
Hi Rahul,
I am a Strict follower of Islam. Will this course suit me and also I have to complete 5 times prayers, will I be allowed to do that.
I’m not sure about the answer to this question, so I will not answer it. I recommend calling your nearest Vipassana center with the question and they’ll be able to field it for you. Thank you for the comment!
Hello Rahul,
I live in the USA and have completed 2 courses and just signed up for the third. I It could highly recommend this course. I was very nervous when I attended the first course. A dear friend asked me to go with her, so I said I would try it. For someone with fibromyalgia and sciatic it was very difficult physically for me, but I made it through the group meditations. The last day I found a meditation bench suited to my height and it was perfect. I sat for almost 3 hours with no pain. The second course, I was already in a lot of pain before I went so not in the best frame of mind, and it was actually more difficult than the first. I did not find the right height bench, and tried sitting in a chair or back against the wall with cushions etc. So, my advice to those who want to try this course, but have a lot of chronic pain issues, try to sit in a meditation pose or make your own meditation bench for your weight and height and slant—and practice just sitting for a few hours a day before attending. This time I am taking my own personal meditation bench that I know is the correct height and slant for my body. I’m not saying that I wont still have some back spasms and pain, but I know I will able to work thru these pains with the meditation–because it does help. There were times though even with the pain that I was able to meditate and get completely into it and just acknowledge the pain, then continue meditating. Looking forward to this next one! Also planning to serve for a weekend in the near future also. thanks for your blog!
Thank you for sharing your unique experiences with me and readers, Peggy! I’m sure many people will find this write up helpful.
Hi rahul,
I am about to take the course shortly and hope it benefits.I am diabetic,can i take the medicines.would the two meal plan suit my condition wherein i have to take five meal?.I do yoga regularly,is this course similar?
Your prompt reply and the blog is really helpful.
Hi Rahul,
I am very much interested in meditation and i think VIPASSANA is the best for beginners like me. I am practicing Vipassana after reading the few technics from website at home but feeling some difficulties. I would be grateful if you could answer my following questions:
1). Vipassana Meditation technic
2). Thoughts are disturbing at the middle of the meditation. How can i avoid the thoughts?
Many thanks,
Pradeep
Bala – There is no yoga involved in this course, so I can’t say it’s similar. You will be meditating for close to 11 hours a day. With regards to your meal plan and your diabetes, you will have to contact the center that you plan on attending the course at and ask them your questions. I am sure they will find a way to accommodate you.
Thank you for your comment!
Pradeep – Vipassana is “insight meditation” and is a body scanning technique. You focus your attention on each part of your body and observe the sensations on that part of your body objectively, without reacting to them. Vipassana begins on Day 4 at the course, and the first 3 days are dedicated to Anapana so that you can focus your mind in preparation for the Vipassana meditation.
You will learn how to observe your thoughts objectively during the course. My advice to you is to not resist your thoughts, but just watch them as a neutral observer instead. If you don’t resist them, they will pass much faster. Does this answer your questions?
Thank you for your comment!
Thank you Rahul for your valuable advise. this web site is really very nice. I always enjoy talking about meditation and reading the book about meditation. Thanks
Pradeep – It’s my pleasure. Thank you for taking the time to let me know how you feel. Much love.
Hi Rahul,
I am seriously debating with myself whether to attend or drop out of my Vipassana course that starts tomorrow in California. Some of the posts in forums I read online about cultish references to Vipassana are freaking me out.
Also, I am not someone with mental or life issues. I am feeling good and am good at what I do and I begin to question why try to fix something that ain’t broken. Will I cause some irreparable damage to my brain chemistry by 10 days of intense meditation? What if after 10 days I end up where I didn’t want to be? Isn’t ignorance a bliss and why search for deeper meanings when it is unnecessary?
Should I follow my inner voice and not go? Any insights will be very helpful. Eagerly awaiting your reply
Thanks
SKR
SKR – Thanks for reaching out to me, I hope this message finds you in good time.
With regards to the fear about Vipassana being a cult and anything you’ve heard about that, it’s a load of baloney. Nothing will be forced upon you (indoctrination/sequestration) during your time there and you have nothing to worry about. It’s very easy going and you can choose to believe whatever you want at any time.
To answer your question about searching for deeper meanings when everything is working, I can only ask, why did you sign up for Vipassana in the first place? You’re right in thinking that attending a course could flip things upside down for you, because you might realize something while you’re there that shakes up your current model of reality. That definitely happens from time to time during deep meditation sessions. If you want to move closer to Truth (by seeing what’s True for yourself while meditating and looking within), then Vipassana is a great opportunity to do just that. If you do not want to move closer to Truth, then do not go, because that’s what it’s all about.
I will say that the voice of your intuition never has its basis in FEAR. It has its basis in power, possibility, and grace. So, when you refer to your “inner voice” in this situation, it actually sounds to me like it’s your ego talking and not your intuition. One of the great things about meditation is that it will teach you how to quiet the noise of your mind (fear being something that contributes to that noise), so you can hear what your inner voice is saying. The Truth speaks from a quiet place, my friend.
Do not go to the course unless you are 100% committed to seeing it through to the end. Come to a decision ASAP whether you will go or not, and then stick to that decision and be at peace with it. Keep in mind everything I have written here. Let me know what you decide! Much love.
Hi, I am planning to go the retreat on Sep 28th. I am trying to practice sitting on floor with folded legs. I still not able to sit for an hour in that position especially my back hurts. will i get a seat with back support? Can carry my own seat to support my back? Is it allowed to have our own seats/cushions?
Sanju – The pain that you feel when sitting up straight for extended periods of time is crucial to the process of Vipassana. You will understand why at the end of the course, and I promise it’s not for a masochistic reason. They will provide you with ample cushions, and if absolutely necessary, a seat as well. Enjoy your course!
Hello. Before reading your blog, I found a Wat in Chiang Mai which offers a 10-day Vipassana retreat beginning whatever day you arrive. (Northern Insight Meditation Center) The open date concerns me, but they are unable to accept registrations by email.Can you tell me if I should reconsider and adjust my travel dates around the dhamma course offered in Lamphun? A guided course seems more sensibile for a very novice westerner and there is still availability in the dhamma course during my planned time in Thailand. Thank you for any help you might provide.
Thank you so much for posts and replies. I attend a course in December. How are you going to continue your journey with it all – will you Serve?
Juliet – I plan on serving at an upcoming course sometime soon. I practice Vipassana regularly to this day, and it continues to provide benefits. Thank you for your comment!
Gayle – I would agree with your intuition to go with a 10-day guided course. It should provide a better experience for you. Thank you for reaching out to me!
Hello Rahul, your have a broad minded men, i am blessed to get in touch a person like you. i have got benefit from vipasana meditaion, but i have got clarity upon my experince of meditation , which happening within me , but other than else i found the key to resolving that happening by reading ,listing to osho. Now after reading your response , i felt to get your response to aware if you are not regarding osho , have you any experience of reading listing to osho ? , if not you must be go through with osho the website name is :- www. oshoworld.com, there is lot of for downloading for reading ,listing & watching for getting clearity on meditation , because i felt osho were a anagami or might be arhant. i will wait your response, take a time , then comment what you think after reading ,listing osho.
I am back from the wonderful Vipassana program. It was incredible. No words to describe my experience. From day 4 onwards, I am feeling so different. The experience varies so much that, I can not even pinpoint what it is. It has been a week now, still I am not back to my so-called routine life. My thinking seems so disoriented. I see people, but it takes time for me to recognize them. I take long time to respond to if my name is called. No, I am not scared. This world is too noisy whereas I am so lost in the calmness inside me.
I have been practicing pretty much regularly 2 hrs a day or more so far.
It has been some time for you attended the course. How is the effect now after couple of years? Do you see yourself made progress in the spiritual path? How I imagine is, if so much of change can be brought in in 10 days, how much it would be in couple of years?
Hi Rahul,i must say you are making a great effort by helping others.I am going for the 10 -day course today.I am in the third year of my undergraduate program.My parents are not quite excited about this course i am taking ,but they are not forbidding me either.
I am very impatient and not sure about what i want out of life.I am very concerned about my emotional vulnerability. I hope i will get some help there.I am really happy the way my life is turning out but I really want to be more stable emotionally.I really hope things will change after these 10 days.May God bless you.
Hi Rahul,
Thanks for providing such an informative page and discussion on the subject. I’m looking at booking a 10-day course for around 27th Dec in New Zealand (where I was born, but I live/work in Europe these days). I have a few concerns/questions before I book it and I’d really appreciate it if you could weigh in and give your opinion:
1. I’m already booked on 6-day Anthony Robbins seminar in the 2nd week of December. It’s called Date with Destiny and it’s all about figuring out what drives you, what you want to do/be in life, and how to align your actions & decisions towards that purpose, to help resolve inner conflicts that cause us to sabotage our efforts. It’s pretty expensive (and non-refundable) and I’m pretty excited (and nervous) about it. My question is, what’s it going to be like for me, going to this seminar in California, learning all sorts of stuff and insights and things and making interesting breakthroughs etc… then directly after that I fly to my home country, stay with my brother whom I haven’t seen for a year… have christmas with him, then 2 days after Christmas, the Vipassana course starts… I guess I’m just wondering if maybe I’m packing a bit too much intensity into the space of a month. However, it’s equally plausible that the Vipassana could *enhance* the stuff I learn on the Robbins seminar (although in a way, I think I’d choose to do Vipassana *first*, so I’d have these new powers of clarity and truth and self-awareness, *before* I go to the seminar…
2. I return to work at the end of Jan (I work 3 months straight (i.e 90 days straight), then get 3 months off, and so on) – my job is unlikely to afford me the ability to meditate for 2 hours a day, but we do get breaks of course. Presumably even 15-30 minutes a day would be beneficial?
What are your thoughts on this. Sorry for the long-winded question 1 – it only just occurred to me. I am really worried now that I should be doing Vipassana *first*, then the seminar after. My 3 months off starts Nov 1, I’m in Europe, maybe I’d be better to do a Vipassana course in Europe first. Let me know your thoughts. Sorry for the lengthy post!
thanks
Ash
Hello Sachin – I have actually heard of Osho, but never looked into his teachings. I think I will start now because I’ve been getting many messages to do so recently. Thank you for delivering the message once more! Much love.
Sanju – I have continued my practice off and on over the last 3 years. I must say the benefits are very easily seen. I am much more equanimous these days in almost all situations. I’m almost always present (there are still times where I will get lost in reactivity). The thing I love about the course is the intense work that a person can get done over the course of the 10 days because the environment is perfect for it. I’m planning on going to another course in a couple of months to get more work done.
Shri – Thank you for dropping by and leaving your comment! I hope you find what you’re looking for after your 10 day course. Much love.
Ash – All I can say to answer your first question is… you have to follow your intuition. Feel through the fear and see what is best for you. It sounds to me like you already have an idea of what that is.
With regards to meditating two hours a day after completing the retreat, any amount of meditation every day will be beneficial. If you can’t get the 2 hours in every day, don’t sweat it. I personally don’t do it for 2 hours a day, however, I am involved in many different spiritual practices throughout my day. Vipassana is just one tool I use to expand my awareness.
Thank you for your question!
Rahul – thanks for your quick response. My instinct is that I should try to do the Vipassana course *first*, so that my powers of insight and self-understanding are more clear and less ego-oriented. I’ve looked at all the worldwide Dhamma centers and the only one that has a course available before my other seminar is in Portugal. I’m trying to find out if they do it in English + Portuguese, or only Portuguese.
If I’m unable to do a Vipassana course, then I may have to make do simply by trying to practise vipassana meditation as diligently and as often as possible in the 6-7 weeks between now and then? I came across vipassana when reading the highly rated book “Mindfulness in Plain English” by Bhante Henepola Gunaratana. So maybe if I stop procrastinating finishing the book and put a couple of hours a day into it, that will at least have some positive benefits before my seminar.
Worst case, I just go to the seminar as I am I guess. It’s not a life or death situation – I’d just like to get the most out of it, with fully open eyes and not quite as rampant an ego.
I recommend that you wait until the Vipassana retreat to start practicing Vipassana. The way they deliver it at the retreat is in its pure form, and I think it’s very important to practice it that way, if you’re going to practice it at all. I think you’ll get a lot out of the Tony Robbins event either way… there’s no need to stress too much about this decision.
In the end, you must do what you feel is right. Just remember, there is no rush.
As I’ve just concluded a Vipissana meditation retreat (today was closing ceremony), I thought my two cents might be of interest.
I took this course at Doi Suthep in Chiang Mai. You can start pretty much on any date. I had some trouble opening their website though and was able to get through via email after multiple searches on Google. I’d look for it now, but I’m at an internet cafe and the access is sketchy.
If this location is of interest, send a note of inquiry to the monestary and suggest a date or dates when you might be interested to start. They’ll respond fairly quickly. It is on a donation basis and while they offer 3 day, 10 day and 21 day retreats, they recommend a minimum stay of ten days.
The teacher spoke heavily accented English and Thai and many of the monks who live at the monastery also spoke English. Our schedule was a bit different than Rahul’s but not by much. Up at 5. Dhamma at 5:30 for 60 minutes. Breakfast at 7 sharp, 2nd and last meal at 11 sharp. At 1:30 is report – when you meet with the teacher and have an opportunity to ask questions. He’ll also give you your next instruction to advance your practice. At 6 pm, we chanted in Pali, the language spoken by the Buddha when/where he lived. Then there was open questions about practices, Buddhism, why all the elephants, some random, some insightful.
Easy: silence, two meals as you’re expending so few calories. Very difficult for me was the sitting. My body is accustomed to an ergonomically correct chair, keyboard and desk ratio. My room was a thin, hard mattress and sitting meditation, Dhamma, etc., are all on the floor. My back is very sore and my husband pinched a nerve in his shoulder. I might add that we are triathletes — not top in our ranking but certainly in better than average condition. Also, as Thailand is a developing nation, their standards of cleanliness are not those of US or NZ. At some times it bothered me a great deal; at other times, not at all.
We were taught in this order: sitting meditation, walking meditation, laying meditation. Each day we added more time. When I asked how many hours should I be meditating each day, I was told, “don’t be lazy”.
As to two hours a day. I have not heard that. After the retreat however, you will find the time you need. It will be the time YOU need and want for your individual practice. But it is practice and to advance you must practice.
Bottom line. It was a gift from me to me, and I will be forever changed and grateful that I took this step in my life.
Best wishes,
Gayle
Gayle – Thank you for checking back in and sharing your experiences! Detailed report and it should certainly help people out who are considering attending a course in the future.
Did you find your course through the dhamma.org website? It sounds like your course was delivered by a different organization, but I could be wrong. I always suggest going through the dhamma website to find a course, because the way they deliver the course worldwide is uniform and in its pure form.
I looked at so many sites I am not certain if it was dhamma or if itwas International Buddhism Center. It had a fair amount of structure but no tapes. I do very much appreciate being “releases” into a Buddhist culture where meditation is the norm. Gentle reentry.
Hello Rahul,
Great to learn abour your experiences.
Just a Doubt,
I dont know much about meditation, I have read quite a bit about it but never practiced it. Would it be right place to start or would I be out of crowd.
Thanks
Amit – You will be fine. Read some of the comments above and you’ll get a better feel for the answer to your question.
HI,
I am thinking of going on this course. A few reasons.
1) i feel a bit lost, and have always had an interest in what the course offers.
2) to prove to myself I can live without certain means
3) It feels like it found me ?
I am very bad without certain things, smoking being the worse, do you think the power of the course will be enough to to get me occupied ?
Andrew – Yes, the course will keep you fully occupied. Find a course through the http://dhamma.org website. They run the courses impeccably.
i will be attending the course starting from jan4 at igatpuri, i have 1 question, after 10 days and back to normal life style, wont it happen like after some months we are on sme daily routine than we were earlier to the course?? does it happens
Inder – Yes you might revert back to your old schedule, however, you will never be the same after completing the course. The gains you realize after the 10 days of intense meditation practice are yours to keep.
Hi Rahul,
Thank you for your very helpful discussion of the 10-day Vipassana retreat. And thank you to all who have asked questions and added comments of their own.
These retreats were recommended to me years ago by a friend, and I have thought ever since that one day I will attend. But always something in my full life as a wage-earner, mother, wife and caretaker came first. Finally, it looks like I’ll be attending a 10-day session just two weeks from now (I was on a wait list and didn’t expect to be accepted, but almost magically it worked out).
Crazily, now I’m having second thoughts — which is where reading your blog comes in, reminding me of all the reasons I want to go. I look forward to being with and getting to know myself during all those daily hours of practice — away from all the distractions I fill my life with. Also, in what seems like a paradox, I believe that in giving myself MYSELF, I will be better able to give to others. It sounds like this has been your experience, Rahul.
I do have one question: Did you find it difficult to not be able to read or write during the retreat? I’m always reading or writing in my everyday life, and I wish I could take notes during the retreat. But maybe, at least for those 10 days, that would be just another distraction. Do you have any thoughts on this?
Again, thanks for leading this very enlightening discussion!
Jilly Lin – I’m so glad you found this article/discussion beneficial. To answer your question, I did not find it difficult to refrain from reading/writing. The whole experience of silence is quite pleasant, actually. A real counterpoint to normal society. Once you return from the retreat, you’re gonna be like WHOA. There’s so much noise in my day-to-day life. Cherish the serene environment at the retreat, is all I’m sayin!
Hi Rahul, thank you so much for this article! Your description of your overall experience is excellent. I am going to forward it to my sister and a few friends who are interested in trying it. I just signed up for my 3rd 10-day course, on Feb. 15. I love going to different centers all over the world, whether it’s sitting or serving (I love serving! I just served for 1 week at the Vesup, Georgia center–amazing experience). Anyway, what I’d love to know is, how is the FOOD in Kaufman?? I’d heard from many world-travelers that the Kaufman center has the best food. What are your thoughts about it? And how were the rooms? I’ve served many times at the Shelburne, Massachussetts center and that place is huge. But even the people there talk about Kaufman’s food! haha. Can’t wait to try it!
Thanks again for sharing
–Cynthia
Cynthia – The food is DELICIOUS. I haven’t taken a course anywhere else, so I don’t know how it is relatively, but it’s very good. The rooms are nice. The whole center is really nice, actually. I think they recently did some renovations as well, so it’s probably even nicer than when I attended. You’ll enjoy your retreat there! Thank you for the kind words and for dropping by.
Hey there brother, excellent review…has changed my mind about comitting to ten days : i was thinking of going in with the mindset of only doing 5 days but i now see that i will regret leaving early. I am interested in the course in kelseyville, northern california starting dec 19 and am on a wait list. Do you know if it is ok to leave on the night of day 10, as i want to catch a plane to Ireland the next morning?
Ciaran – So glad to hear that the article changed your mind. You won’t regret it! To answer your question, you’ll want to contact the Vipassana center you will be attending and ask them. They’ll have the answer for you. Day 10 is crucial to help you reintegrate into the normal way of life, so I’m not sure they will let you skip it. Thanks for dropping by and leaving your comment!
Hello,
I signed up and very excited! Thank you for all the great information. I have a question though…
- How much are you outside?
- Is the meditation hall heated?
They keep saying bring warm socks, blankets so I’m not sure what to expect.
Thank you so much!
Hobbs – Congrats on signing up for the course! I’m confident you will love it.
To answer your questions, you’re only outside by CHOICE during the break periods, otherwise you don’t have to be outside at all. Depending on the center you are at, everything SHOULD be heated. Vipassana is a well run organization and their centers are very nice. To make sure, call the center and find out.
Thanks for dropping by and leaving a comment!
Hello,
Question: Does one have to be in a good physical form to withstand the course? I am going through some health issues that somewhat remind panic attacks. my heart have been checked and they say everything is normal. But my energy is very low and I spend all time in bed (luckily we have 1 days x-mas break). I also have some episodes of difficult breathing and feeling as if I am going to pass out. This has been going on for 2 months now. All my friends say it is all in my head as I have a tendency be negative about things and always complain about not feeling well. I have also been listening to lots of mantras, healing frequencies, EFT, etc. I do try hard , but not feeling any better. Will I be able to complete this course? I am at the end of my rope. And I need this course to take control of my mind, repeating thoughts, etc.
Lucia – I recommend that you call up the center you’re considering attending a course at and ask them these questions. They will let you know what they can do for you. I can’t answer because I don’t know for sure. Thank you for reaching out to me and leaving a comment.
Hi! Happy New Year!
I just finished my first 10-day vipassana course. I loved it!
Before I made a decision to attend I read your post about your experience.
Thank you for sharing your experience and helping me dismiss my fears. I have wanted to take a course for many years but my fears were keeping me away. Thank you.
My pleasure! I’m so glad you decided to go and that it was a great experience for you. Much love.
Hi Rahul – thank you for sharing so much.
My questions:
1) Does the course recommend any particular style of sitting, such as lotus pose, etc. I have a problem with my legs getting numb (pins & needles) after around 30 minutes of sitting with legs crossed so I am not sure how I will manage for 3+ hours? Can we stretch or stand up if necessary?
2) Why did you start drinking again when you initially stopped after the course?
Hey Harmony! You can sit however you’d like. You won’t be able to stretch or stand up during the meditation sessions in the group hall, but I think you’ll be just fine. You’ll see!
I started drinking again here and there because I enjoy wine and a good beer from time to time. Thanks for dropping by!
just finished 10 days course, nice experience, but trying to manage for finding time for meditation in morning or evening. cant able to concentrate much in the morning and feel sleepy after waking at 6.00am(meditate from 6am to 6.45am) i think doing anapan for some days continous should work. anapan is the technique that brings mind immediately to present from wanderance??? what if i do anapan for some days & little little time for vipasana progresively.???
Inderjeet – That will be fine. Just alternate as you please!
thnks
Hi Rahul,
I am SO thankful to have come across your blog/site/review this morning.
I first heard of Vipassana about 3 or 4 months ago, and checked out the http://www.suttama.dhamma.org at that time. I immediately knew this was something I HAD to do. I have now applied for a 10 day session, from May 23 – Jun 3, 2012, in Montabello, Quebec, Canada.
Reading your review, and all the questions/answers/comments thereafter has been very helpful in answering some questions that have been floating around in my brain.
I do however have 3 more that I did not see addressed.
1. I’m a bit of a caffeine addict. Is there any coffee available on the “menu”?
2. Although I am a “morning person”, (I typically am up by 6 or 7 AM and in bed by 9 or 10 PM), I am concerned about falling asleep during meditation. Did this happen to you, or any of the others in your group?
I understand that the meditation actually give you much energy, but I’m mostly concerned about the first few days.
3. How many people are in each group, and is there more than one “server”/”teacher”?
Thanks so much, in advance.
Linda
Linda – Congrats on applying for your first sitting! Thanks for dropping by and leaving a comment.
To answer your questions:
1) I don’t recall. There may be. There is definitely tea. You may want to call your center and find out to be certain.
2) Don’t worry, you won’t fall asleep. I don’t know of anyone who did while performing seated meditation. If you’re lying down… now that’s a different story (don’t lie down! lol)
3) There are two groups, men and women. How many people are in each group depends on the course. There are two assistant teachers, one man and one woman. There are various servers who help out in the kitchen and with other things. There is also a manager that you can speak to if you have any issues with your stay.
Hey Rahul, Hi
I have enrolled for the Vipassana Course near Titwala from Feb 22nd to Mar 4th
My main concerns were the following
1) I lost my father last year post which I’m taking a moderate level of medication like anti depressants and a sleeping pill at night which helps me doze off to 9.5 hours of deep sleep
2) I am allowed to carry these meds to the course, but do you feel they’ll interfere with the whole meditation process, considering the huge sleep backlog i’ll have
3) Also, I have had to quit my job last year due to the depression. So am looking for some answers and clarity of thought
Whats your take? Should I take the Meds with me or allow the meditation to work out its magic
Thanks,
Kris
Kris – I highly recommend you contact the center and ask them this question. I don’t feel comfortable answering it because I am not certain! Thank you for dropping by and leaving your comment.