The Nutriments of Existence: An at-home retreat

The Buddha’s teaching about nutriment [Pāli, āhāra] points out how the natural process of life is connected to the round of rebirth. He pointed out four types of nutriment: food, contact, intention, and consciousness. As long as we’re alive, we have to use material food, experience contact through the senses, act with intention, and and discern the objects of awareness.  This retreat will explore how to keep a healthy relationship to the necessary process of nutriment, and live without greed, aversion and delusion.  Can we use the four nutriments for the remainder of this life in the most beneficial way, without anxiety, without clinging to existence, sustained in the joy of the Dhamma, and aiming for the highest bliss, peace and freedom of Nibbāna?

This brief at-home retreat will be offered on Zoom, with ample opportunities for questions and discussion. [Detailed program] If you are unable to attend every session live, the talks may be viewed on Dhammadharini’s YouTube channel.  To receive the link for participation, kindly register here.

The retreat is led by Ven Bhikkhunī Sobhanā Theri [Bio]

Friday, September 8

2:00 pm Welcome, Orientation, Opening Dhamma talk

3:00 pm  Guided meditation followed sitting and walking meditation on your own

4:30 pm Second Dhamma talk with time for questions

5:15 pm Guided meditation

6:00 pm Closing blessings followed by meditation on your own.

Saturday, September 9

5:00 am  Silent Meditation

5:30 am Morning Puja chanting, reflection before using the requisites

6:15 am Third Dhamma talk with time for questions

7:00 am  Mindful practice and chores on your own

9:30 am Guided meditation

10:15 am Mindful practice chores, and lunch on your own

1:00 pm Fourth Dhamma talk with time for questions

1:45 pm Guided meditation

2:30 pm Group discussion [only for those sitting the entire retreat]

3:30 pm  Mindful practice, take a walk or mindful movement on your own

6:00 pm Meditation

7:00 pm Evening Puja, asking forgiveness, reflection after using the requisites,

and Fifth Dhamma talk,

followed by meditation on your own.

Sunday, September 10

5:00 am  Meditation

5:30 am Morning Puja chanting, reflection before using the requisites

6:15 am Closing reflection and sharing circle

7:00 am The retreat is finished,

May the merits of your participation be a blessing for you!

Those who wish to continue may then join Dhammadharini’s regular Sunday Programs!

9:00-10:45 am. Join us for Guided Meditation and time for questions

1:00 - 2:30 pm  Read and discuss the teachings of the Buddha