Clarity of Mind Retreat

We all have the potential for deep peace within. Buddhist teachings present a step-by-step method for developing a meditative concentration capable of producing a peaceful mind that is able to transform even the most challenging of external circumstances.

Gaining even a little insight of the nature and clarity of our mind will profoundly change our understanding of everything around us and within us. In turn, we will learn how to protect ourselves from suffering, sickness, fears and dangers, while deepening our experience of inner peace.

In this special day-long retreat, we will have the opportunity to familiarize ourselves with the practice of silence, contemplation and meditation. We will learn meditation techniques to improve our day to day life, and enjoy silence until we break for a community lunch. We also have the option to take a nature walk at the serene Thatcher Woods in River Forest.

All sessions include a brief teaching and guided meditation and time for question and answer in the last session. The program is suitable for beginners and those with some experience of Kadampa Buddhism.

Everyone is welcome!

What is a retreat?

In meditation retreat, we take a break from our normal busyness to gain experience of a particular meditation practice.

In a retreat, we have the opportunity to gain deeper concentration by letting go of our usual busyness, preoccupations and worries, to experience a spacious and life-enhancing perspective.

Even with poor concentration, we are generally more peaceful, relaxed, and happy on retreat than in our ordinary fast-paced, externalized lives.

Whether you’re a beginner or simply want to enjoy retreat in ideal conditions, every aspect of these retreats are structured to help you refresh your mind through meditation. During the breaks enjoy meaningful conversation and the beauty and tranquility of Thatcher Woods.

Make it a Digital Detox Day:

Are you feeling over-stimulated by the modern world and your phone is rarely out of your hand? Are you losing time to tech-based distraction? Is your phone draining you of energy to live with clarity and focus? Instead of sinking into habitual distraction, now is the time to take back control of our mind. Consider leaving your phone in your car and taking a break.

Retreat Sessions:

Sessions run between 60 and 90 minutes. The sessions combine practical instruction and guided meditation that will allow you to:

• connect with an experience of true inner peace

• develop basic techniques that can help you to create a consistent habit of meditation

• leave with practical inner tools to apply what you have learned to your daily life

During the meditation breaks:

Between retreat sessions take time to relax and carry your experience of peace, enjoy the tranquility of the grounds and connect and discuss with like-minded people.

Registration:

You must register in advance for this event. Price includes refreshments and vegetarian lunch.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

SCHEDULE

10:00 - 11:00am Guided Retreat Session 1 (in silence)

11:00 - 11:30am Coffee & tea break

11:30am - 12:30pm Guided Retreat Session 2 (in silence)

12:30pm - 2:30pm Vegetarian lunch provided, plus community and nature walk

2:30pm - 4:00pm Guided Retreat Session 3 with Q&A

TEACHER

Resident Teacher Gen Kelsang Zamling 

BOOKS & MATERIALS

The following book(s) will be referenced. If you'd like to follow along, you can purchase copies from our bookstore or by clicking the book title.

• How to Solve Our Human Problems

• How to Transform Your Life (e-book version available for free)

LOCATION

This retreat will be held at the Pavilion at Thatcher Woods, 8030 Chicago Ave, River Forest, IL 60305, USA

Enter from Chicago Ave, just west of Thatcher Ave; turn north onto the driveway and follow it to the parking lot; the Pavilion is at the far end of the parking lot. Driving: ample parking is available. Transit: Thatcher Woods is about a 10-15 minute walk from the nearest bus stop or Metra station.

COST

$65 (includes refreshments & vegetarian lunch)

Note: You must register in advance for this event. Registration closes at 10pm on Apr 3.

Monthly members:

Basic Members: $65

Standard Members: $65

Benefactor Members: $65

Refund policy. No one turned away for lack of funds; contact us to request financial accommodations.

This in-person event is not available by livestream.