Befriending Mortality: Mindfulness of Death (Maraṇasati) Practices to Cultivate Insight, Presence, Compassion, and Meaning

Description

We all “know” that we will die, yet we tend to ignore this fact and put our collective head in the sand. But rather than running away from our inevitable finitude, we can harness the power of this reflection to stay aligned with our deepest values and to live and love more fully. Through mindfulness of death (maraṇasati) practice, we become more fully and gratefully present for this miraculous, passing show called life.

Fully embracing our life’s impermanence can give rise to a deep letting go and freedom so that we can be fearlessly and peacefully prepared for our death as a potentially liberative moment. Considering the myriad spiritual benefits of maraṇasati, let us come together to explore this supreme practice, one on which the Buddha invited us to reflect daily for the sake of ourselves and others. Frank Ostaseski will be a special guest joining us in person on the evening of Thursday, October 29th.

This retreat includes one daily session of interactive practice which is essential for deepening practice; and it is a silent retreat except for teacher-led Q&A, small groups, or other practice meetings.

On-Land Teachers: Nikki Mirghafori, John Martin, Kodo Conlin, and Frank Ostaseski (special guest on Oct. 29th)
Online Teachers: Jeanne Corrigal, Ramona Lisa Ortiz-Smith (Teacher in Training)