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The People's Guide To Mexico

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Why We Meditate

For many years Lorena and I tried (and failed) to find a meditation technique that didn't involve guru-worship, sandal-kissing or incense-burning. I don't have anything against these practices, but they're just not for me.

In 1989 we finally heard of a serious, non-sectarian method of meditation called "Vipassana". After making further inquiries, we learned that courses in this particular technique were available in the U.S. from S.N. Goenka, a Burmese lay teacher who has established a series of non-profit Vipassana centers around the world. Our interest was further aroused by Mr. Goenka's warm good humor. With refreshing modesty, he frankly admits that he is not fully enlightened and rejects any guru-like labels or mystique.

New students are encouraged to maintain a healthy scepticism until they've taken instruction and actually experienced the benefits of Vipassana for themselves.

Nor will Mr. Goenka allow anyone within his association to profit from the teaching. All instruction is free, including meals and lodging. Courses are funded entirely by donations -- and donations are accepted only from students who wish to contribute after successfully completing a course.

As Lorena and I soon learned in our first course, the technique taught by S.N. Goenka and his assistant teachers redefines our Western concept of 'meditation' as simply a means of achieving relaxation or stress reduction. Now, after ten years of regular practice and further study, our experience confirms that this powerful technique produces positive, life-changing results far in excess of anything we ever dared hope for.

“Vipassana is a simple and practical method of mental purification which makes it possible to face the tensions and problems of daily life in a calm and balanced way. This path of self-awareness is extraordinary in its simplicity, its lack of dogma, and above all its results."

“Vipassana literally means "to see things as they really are". It is a systematic way of developing insight and can be practiced by anyone.”

Vipassana courses are now taught at two places in Mexico, at Dhamma Makaranda, the center near Mexico City and another off-center course near Veracruz. I can't imagine a better opportunity to turn a visit to Mexico into a genuine "trip of a lifetime", by combining travel with a ten-day meditation course. These meditation courses fill up very rapidly, however, so be sure to apply as soon as possible.

More on Vipassana

What is a Vipassana Course Like?

Hello, I was wondering if you could tell me a bit more about the Vipassana 10 day meditation course. I was introduced to meditation while practicing yoga. I am interested in the course and would love to hear about your personal experiences during the 10 day course. I am a person who loves to talk, so I am wondering if I can even manage to be mostly silent for 10 days. That in itself would be a challenge! I would also love to know how you have applied Vipassana to your daily life.

Thanks! April,

Lorena responds:.... (more)


Vipassana Meditation
The Art of Living, as taught by S.N. Goenka

http://www.dhamma.org
Mexico Course Schedules & Application
Vipassana Books: Pariyatti
The Art of Living: Book
What Is A Vipassana Course Like?

http://www.peoplesguide.com

©1972-2007 by Carl Franz & Lorena Havens