Reflections on 4/27 The English One-day Retreat by Brenda Chiang

When I learned about this event, I was feeling mentally exhausted due to some things happening at the same time, and I really wanted to take an immersion experience. So I registered immediately. So on the day, I eagerly stepped into Degui Academy.

That day, we practiced eight-form moving meditation, sitting meditation in four stages, Yoga exercise, eating meditation, and walking meditation. By the end, Venerable Guo Chii gave a Dharma talk and held the sharing and Q&A time. I felt this process like a purification journey for my mind.

I spent the day by the rule: Every meditation practice is a new experience, every moment is new. When I practiced, I tried to keep the awareness of the whole body, especially in tension and relaxation of all the muscles. This made my brain get the chance to take a rest at the same time. My mind gradually settling down and became simple. 

The most impressive part of the day is walking meditation held in the afternoon. I just followed Fashi's guidance to walk naturally with relaxation, to practice slow walking meditation, fast walking meditation. In the process, I just focused on each movement. Because the time I spent in the chan hall is limit and precious. No expectations and no thinking, just the present moment. Finally to the last part, I lay down on the floor rather than sitting down. At the moment, all the vexations and affliction were gone. I feel that my heart has shed a lot of burdens, and gained some relaxation and freedom.

I have come to appreciate the benefits of meditation after a long period of learning. I am grateful for the opportunity to participate and for the guidance of Ven. Guo Chii. Each experience of participation is unique, contributing to my accumulation of experiences and learning. Meditation is truly a wonderful gift you give to yourself. So I strongly recommend people to come and savor the flavor of meditation.