Beliefs

In the depths of our last retreats I lead an interesting meditation that some students found very useful. After spending a few days softening our Ego with breath and sensation based meditation I invited folk to bring to mind a belief (“a thought that they have thought for a very long time – Byron Katie”) that caused them some suffering and thus perhaps was not serving them.. things like what we think our partner or children should be doing are often interesting or thoughts related to ourselves “I should lose weight”, “I should be kinder, more generous”... etc.. In fact anything with should in front of it.. you know you are in the right territory. Anyway, with some days of practice with being the observer of breath, sensation and emotion, everyone was ready to dive into these biggies and to observe their beliefs... AND then to observe the opposite of that belief. The ultimate experience of I am not my thoughts. Some people saw very clearly where their beliefs were not serving them or their relationships (also with themselves) and thus were suffering. Sometimes these beliefs were not even consistent with their values. Being able to hold the opposite belief in the space of awareness revealed to them a neutral perspective that enabled a clearer view. A more empowered and psychological flexible perspective that enabled a more open heart and different behaviours. Not always an easy meditation outside a retreat or therapy environment, but if you feel drawn to it, come and do some practice with me sometime. Next retreats are 24 – 28 Apr & 27 – 29 Sept in Springbrook.

Am considering also future retreats for 2025. Please express interest if you would be interested in coming with me to Lady Elliot Island, Cook Islands or South of Spain (Almeria)