The Art of Awareness

Date: August 15-17, 2014 (Fri. evening to Sun. afternoon)

Facilitator: Dr. Ashwani Kumar, PhD

This experiential retreat provides an exceptional opportunity to experience the power of meditative inquiry for self-understanding and transformative insight.

Dr. Ashwani Kumar is currently a Professor of Education at Mount Saint Vincent University in Halifax. He has been seriously engaged with J. Krishnamurti’s work for over 10 years. He has spoken at Krishnamurti schools and study centers in US, Canada, UK, and India. He is also the author of the book 'Curriculum As Meditative Inquiry' which applies Krishnamurti’s insights to education and learning.

Awareness (variously also called “meditation,” “pure observation,” and “attentiveness”) forms the core of J. Krishnamurti’s teachings. In this workshop we will together explore the meaning and significance of the art of awareness that underlies the arts of listening, seeing and learning.

To study Krishnamurti is essentially to study oneself. So rather than merely developing an intellectual understanding of what Krishnamurti has spoken or written about, we will explore our own existential questions that matter to us most. This workshop provides an opportunity for deeper self-understanding by inquiring together and listening with affection and an open mind. This will help us understand and remove what blocks or hinders the direct perception of our inner and outer life and allow us to meet life with greater awareness, free of conflicts and problems.

“There is understanding only when there is stillness, when there is silent observation, passive awareness. Then only the problem yields its full significance. The awareness of which I speak is of what is from moment to moment, of the activities of thought and its subtle deceptions, fears and hopes. Choiceless awareness wholly dissolves our conflicts and miseries.”
J. Krishnamurti

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

Cost:

Early-bird rate (30 days in advance):
Double occupancy w/ meals- $220
Commuters- $170 w/ meals; $120 w/o meals

Regular rate:
Double occupancy w/ meals- $250
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 here.

Please note that, due to scheduled construction, no extended stay is offered after the end of this retreat.