Approaches to Meditation

Date: May 16-18, 2014 (Fri. evening to Sun. afternoon)

Facilitator: Dr. Hillary Rodrigues, PhD

Hillary Rodrigues (University of Lethbridge) is a professor of Eastern Religious traditions, particularly Hindu and Buddhist philosophies and cultures. A former teacher and administrator at the Krishnamurti school that once existed at the site of the Swanwick Centre, he has published several scholarly studies on aspects of Krishnamurti’s thought. His books include Krishnamurti’s Insight (Pilgrims) and Introducing Hinduism (Routledge).

Although Hillary is a scholar by profession, this is not an academic retreat. Instead, Hillary will draw upon personal understanding to explore the notion of meditation. If one randomly asked a handful of people what was meant by meditation, one is likely to get quite a range of answers. For some, it is a deep and sustained thinking about an issue. For others it is a focussed concentration on a sound or image. Is it creative visualization, or a peaceful focus on one’s breathing? Eastern religious traditions have a range of terms for such practices, such as dharana, smrti, dhyana, and samadhi.

In this retreat, Hillary will explore some of these categories. We will collectively inquire into what the goal of meditation is supposed to be, and how, or even if, such practices can enable one to attain the goals they seek. The intent behind our explorations and inquires is not primarily to accumulate knowledge about the topic (although that is very likely), but to serve as an opportunity to engage earnestly with pivotal psychological transformation or spiritual realization.

Activities will include talks with Q&A, dialogues,videos and meditative nature walks.

Introductory Public Talk

Friday Evening: May 16, 2014, 7:30 pm

Hillary will provide a talk and Q&A session at the Swanwick Centre in Metchosin, entitled, “Can anyone really ever meditate?” as an introduction to the retreat at the Centre on Saturday and Sunday. By donation.

The talk will introduce listeners to varied notions of meditation, and inquire into their relationship to the attainment of pivotal transformative insight, with particular reference to the teachings of J. Krishnamurti

Cost:

Early-bird rate (30 days in advance):
Double occupancy w/ meals- $260
Commuters- $170 w/ meals; $120 w/o meals

Regular rate:
Double occupancy w/ meals- $290
Commuters- $190 w/ meals; $140 w/o meals

Private room option on a first-come basis: $50

Persons with financial constraints may be offered a special discount. Please contact the program manager, Ralph Tiller.