Prerequisite: Beginning meditation class or the equivalent.

The Buddha taught that there is a direct way for alleviating suffering and discovering peace, wisdom and happiness - and that is through cultivating the Four Foundations of Mindfulness. In this course three Spirit Rock teachers explore this liberating teaching that forms the basis for Insight meditation practice.

The sutta on the Four Foundations of Mindfulness offers guidance on how to practice meditation by connecting with our direct experience. In the First Foundation of Mindfulness, these practices begin with awareness of the body, grounding our attention in the breath and an intimate awareness of the nature of the body, using a number of different techniques.

In this daylong, we will explore the different ways to practice mindfulness of the body described in the sutta. This practice offers profound insight into the nature of the body and reality. It is through an intimate observation of the body that we develop a visceral awareness of change, and how to meet the transient, challenging and often painful nature of life with presence, acceptance and letting go.

This retreat day will explore the essentials of mindfulness meditation through working with the breath and body in guided meditations, talks and discussions. Participants will gain an experiential understanding of how mindfulness works and how it can transform our lives, contributing to a genuine sense of well-being, joy, non-reactivity and freedom.

This is an excellent program for those with some experience in meditation and for those who wanting to refresh and deepen their understanding of this essential Buddhist practice. You can register for individual days, but we highly recommend attending all four days for a more complete understanding of this teaching (see code FF1D13 to register for the full program).

Young Adults (18-26) and Seniors (65+ on fixed and limited income) are invited to attend this event for $25.

Teachings are appropriate for individuals as well as health care professionals. Continuing Education (CE) credit available. See below for more information.

NOTE: Those interested in three straight daylongs devoted to body-based practices may want to continue July 8-9 with the two-day non-residential retreat on "Embodied Awakening," code DR7D13.

Online Bulletin Board for Ride Sharing

Online Registration for this event is available until 12 noon one business day before the event. If you can't attend, see our Cancellation Policy.

Even if you have been to Spirit Rock before, please review information about What to Bring to a Daylong. This link has useful information about what to wear, what to bring, how to get here, and more.

No one will be turned away for lack of funds. Limited Volunteer/Work Exchange opportunities, as well as scholarships, may be available for this program. If interested, please contact the Volunteer Coordinator at volunteering@spiritrock.org or (415) 488-0164 x224.

Continuing Education (CE) Credit: 6 CE credits available for MFTs, LCSWs, psychologists and nurses from SRMC-SCRC for $30. Prepayment available on website. For more information, see Continuing Education (CE) Credit.