The Value of a Meditation Retreat

by Mary Ann | Mar 1, 2011 | Study Resources

By Peter Carlson

The value of the Buddhist approach to life is threefold:

1. There is a clear understanding of the way the mind works, either to create and sustain stressful states of mind or to alleviate that suffering.
2. There is an ongoing valuing of harmlessness, compassion, generosity and tolerance.
3. There is a high value placed on routinely training the mind through meditation.

Currently, the world we live in is very stressful. Despite all our creature comforts there is a persistent unsatisfactoriness looming. We have intervals that are comfortable and reassuring, followed by sleeplessness, restlessness, and stress-induced illnesses. (more…)