| During this practice weekend, we explore how a path of awakening can be supported by a ‘parts’ based view of our inner landscape.
We may assume our default ‘sense of self’ to be singular or coherent in nature, but for many of us, especially in relational life, the experience is much more multi-faceted; of discrete ‘patterns of self’, with differing roles, needs and agendas, taking precedence or retreating depending on the situation we are in. As a result, we can find ourselves conflicted and changeable, or struggling to embed a path of practice into our daily life, and not quite sure why.
A wider ‘parts’ view of our ‘patterns of self’ can help to transform such challenges into doorways of awakening, marrying the subtlety and timelessness of the Buddha’s meditative teachings with the reality of how our ‘patterns of self’ constellate as we walk a path in daily life. And through such understanding, more of our life can be included on the path, evoking genuine curiosity and kindness.
To support this weekend, we draw on frameworks from ‘Internal Family Systems’. Whilst developed as a therapeutic modality, its application is much wider and is a helpful tool on various paths of awakening.
The weekend is open to all, but a background in Insight Meditation or Mindfulness practice will be assumed. It may be especially useful for those experiencing stagnation in their practice, or inner conflicts. It can be engaged with in silence if you choose, but the aim is to support a path through life, so it may be more useful to consider it a practice weekend than a retreat. |
