A Heart Wide as the World: A Daylong Compassion Retreat led by Janka Livoncova

This retreat will focus on cultivation of Sati (Mindfulness) and Karuna (Compassion).

“Compassion begins here: we sense the trembling of our hearts, and we learn to stay present. As much as we would wish this pain to end, there may be no immediate solution. As much as we would wish for that person to be safe and protected, it is not within our power to dictate this. What can we offer in that moment? Our wholehearted presence, our willingness to stay near, to do all that we can do and know it is never enough.” – Christina Feldman

The retreat will be held in noble silence and will include alternating periods of sitting and walking meditation, mindful movement, instructions and reflections, with a mid-day lunch break to practice mindful eating. The schedule will also include an optional discussion period to reflect on how to skillfully apply the wisdom of the practice in our daily life.

This retreat is suitable for all levels of practice; however, some meditation experience is suggested.

Bring your lunch and any appropriate props you will need for your sitting meditation practice. Rising Fawn has chairs, large bolsters and blankets. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes for walking outside.

Cost: $40 registration fee + dana* for the teacher

There will be an opportunity to offer dana to the teacher at the end of the retreat.

*Dana is a practice of expressing gratitude through generosity. Dana or generosity, the practice of giving and receiving, is the heart and foundation of the Buddhist path. The Buddha taught generosity as a means of liberating our hearts, transforming clinging and encouraging non-attachment.

Janka is dedicated to offering the teachings and her guidance freely. This means that she receives no compensation for teaching retreats and relies instead on the generosity of retreat participants. There will be an opportunity to offer dana to Janka at the end of the retreat.

There is one work-study scholarship available. To inquire, please email Janka at janka@breathingbody.net.

To read more about Janka, visit www.breathingbody.net and www.chattanoogainsight.com.

To read more about the practice of dana, go here: https://tricycle.org/magazine/dana-practice-giving/

Rising Fawn Gardens has a no refund policy. If extenuating circumstances prevent you from being present, please contact us in advance of the event so that another participant can be provided the opportunity to attend.