Retreat Program
Living Mindfully
During a retreat at Maple Village, you learn to practice mindfulness in all aspects of life: Mindful breathing, sitting and walking meditation, meal preparation, housework, attending Dharma talks, sharing thoughts during Dharma discussions, and savoring tea… Experience the joy, peace, and happiness of the mindfulness practice with the Village Sangha.
Mindful Breathing
You need only a single mindful breath to establish contact with yourself and your environment. Mindful breathing unites the body and the mind. Your mind is present with your body when you are aware of the air entering and leaving.
The Teachers
The retreats are led by the Dharmacaryas (Dharma teachers) of Maple Village or by the monks and nuns of Plum Village. The Dharmacaryas of Maple Village are lay disciples of Venerable Thich Nhat Hanh and have all received the Transmission of the Lamp from the Master. Since 1985, they have led numerous retreats and Mindfulness Days at Maple Village and in various cities across Canada.
Dharma Talks
Listening to a Dharma Talk is also a form of meditation. Sit comfortably, follow your breath, and listen mindfully; try not to lie down during the talk.
Dharma Discussions
Discussions should focus on deep questions and insights regarding the Dharma teachings; you are welcome to share your experiences and ask questions to deepen your understanding.
Sitting Meditation
Sitting meditation simply involves enjoying the present moment and our breath. Sit facing a wall in a comfortable position, whether on a cushion, a bench, or a chair; keep your back straight, and relax all the muscles in your body. Breathe in through your nostrils and notice your abdomen expanding. Breathe out and notice your abdomen returning to its normal size.
Relax, breathe, and smile.
Walking Meditation
Walk for the sake of walking, without needing to arrive anywhere. Be mindful of the contact between your feet and the ground. Coordinate your breathing with your steps. Think neither of the past nor the future; return to the present moment. Walk as if you were the happiest person on earth.
Tea Meditation
This is an opportunity to celebrate the present moment. During the tea ceremony, you wait in silence until everyone has been served so you can enjoy a cup of tea together in the company of friends. You can share a song, a poem, or a story.
Noble Silence
Silence is essential to the quality of your practice. You are encouraged to remain silent during your stay, especially in public areas. At first, you may feel uncomfortable, but you will soon realize that silence allows for a deep connection with yourself and those around you. Silence can bring great peace and joy. From time to time, you will hear the sound of a bell. When you do, stop whatever you are doing, smile, take three breaths, and silently recite this gatha: Listen, listen, this wonderful sound of the bell brings me back to my true nature.
General Guidelines
During the retreat, you are asked to eat vegetarian meals and to abstain from cigarettes, alcohol, or other intoxicants, as well as from any sexual activity.
We eat in silence to appreciate the value of food and our connection with the entire universe. By eating mindfully with our family and friends, we develop compassion for those who are lonely and those who have nothing to eat, and we realize the value of our own lives.
We participate in various household tasks with joy, attentive to what we are doing and to the present moment.
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