Registration for this retreat is closed
Both Webinar and Meeting Format(Some program sessions allow you to see and hear only the teacher, while other program sessions will allow you to see and hear the teacher as well as other program participants).
Guy and Sally Armstrong share their intentions for this weeklong retreat for experienced practitioners. Learn more: https://www.dharma.org/gsa21/
Teachings on emptiness have been a central theme in Buddhism from the very beginning, pointing to the direct realization of liberation. In this retreat we will introduce and explore the many meanings of emptiness in practice and understanding, including selflessness, insubstantiality, and the nature of awareness. The retreat will feature daily meditation instructions, questions and answers, and a talk. There will also be the opportunity for small group meetings with the teachers.
Prerequisites:
Applicants are expected to have attended at least one four-week structured and teacher-led insight meditation retreat, or four similar one-week retreats.
Optional Four-Week Extension:
For those who take part in the Emptiness online retreat, there will be the opportunity to register for a 26-day extension taught by Guy Armstrong which will take place immediately after, from March 9 through April 3. The extension will offer two dharma talks a week based on Guy’s book Emptiness: A Practical Guide for Meditators. Participants are invited to continue in retreat mode, or attend the talks as part of their normal daily lives. Each session will be 75 minutes and include time for Q&A. Details on the extension will be coming soon.
Fees
For this course, sliding scale fees are $240, $390, or $600. We also offer a scholarship fee of $120, and no-fee enrollment for those who request a fee-waiver. Our “Pay What You Can Afford" system supports the cultivation of a dynamic and inclusive community and contributes to the health and vibrancy of the sangha. Emailimsonline@dharma.orgfor more information or to request a scholarship or no-fee enrollment.
Daily Schedule - times listed in EST, Eastern Standard Time:
Note: all sessions will be recorded and posted so you can view it later if you missed one
Monday, March 1
7:30 pm - 8:15 pm EST Opening Session 4:30 pm - 5:30 pm PST
Tuesday, March 2 - Sunday, March 7
EST Activity (PST)
11:00 a.m. Sit with instructions (8:00 a.m.)
2:00 p.m. Q&A (11:00 a.m. )
7:30 p.m. Dharma talk (4:30 p.m. )
Monday, March 8
11 am - 12 noon EST Closing Session (8 am - 9 am PST)
The teachers ask that you agree to a daily schedule which includes the three teacher-led sessions listed above, as well as four additional sittings at times of your own choosing. Please see the suggested daily schedule below. You are welcome to modify the times between the teacher-led sessions as needed.
EST Activity (PST)
6:00 – 6:45 Sit #1 ---
6:45 – 9:00 Breakfast, chores ---
9:00 – 9:45 Sit #2 (6:00 – 6:45 Sit #1)
9:45 – 11:00 Walk or sit (6:45 – 8:00 Breakfast, chores)
11:00 – 11:45 Sit #3 with instructions (8:00 – 8:45 Sit #2 w/instructions)
11:45 – 12:45 Lunch (8:45 – 9:45 Walk)
12:45 – 2:00 Rest, walk (9:45 – 11:00 Sit #3, walk)
2:00 – 2:45 Q&A (11:00 – 11:45 Q&A)
2:45 – 5:00 Walk or sit #4 (11:45 – 2:00 Lunch, rest)
5:00 – 7:30 Dinner, chores (2:00 – 4:30 Sit #4, walk)
7:30 – 8:15 Dharma Talk (4:30 – 5:15 Dharma Talk)
8:15 – 9:00 Walk or stretch (5:15 – 7:30 Dinner, chores)
9:00 – 9:30 Sit #5 (7:30 Sit #5)
A note on dana (generosity)
Most IMS teachers—like insight teachers around the world—rely on the generosity of students for their livelihood, and receive no compensation from course fees. (Click here to learn more about the dana practice.) There will be an opportunity to offer a contribution to your teachers at the end of this course.
Information you might find helpful:
Guidelines For Your Home Retreat
IMS Online Program Etiquette
IMS Online FAQ’s
