Tranquil Sitting Meditation Retreat

Led by Shi Jing

17 - 20 September 2010, Hourne Farm
3 day retreat: Friday - Monday

Sitting meditation is a key element in the view and practice of the Dragon Gate tradition, emphasizing the individual’s need to take responsibility for their development and cultivation. The Daoist view of cultivation embraces the totality of our being where nothing is rejected or suppressed. Meditation is a natural unfolding; tranquility and clarity are inherent in our being and not added or imposed through applying concentration or effort. The method is a process that dissolves the false perception that something within us or around us is inadequate and needs to be improved. Relaxing into the moment as it is, is called jingzuo, tranquil sitting, and a grounding in this meditation can enhance all forms of Daoist cultivation.

The periods of sitting meditation will be between forty and fifty minutes and there will be up to four of these periods a day. Instruction on meditation posture will be given according to individuals’ needs, emphasising song (relaxation), zheng (alignment), and ding (stabilisation). This retreat presents an opportunity for new members to get a good grounding in meditation for the development of practice in their daily life, and for more experienced members to refresh their view and reaffirm their commitment to cultivation.

Shi Jing is an English daoshi (Daoist adept) with thirty years’ experience of cultivation. He first studied the Dao in the seventies with Gia-fu Feng, a Chinese Daoist well known for his translation of the Daode jing. Later he travelled to China and in 1995 he became the disciple of Feng Xingzhao, who initiated him as a 31st generation daoshi of the Dragon Gate tradition.

Cost for full three days: £195 (BTA members) £215 (non members)

Those unable to attend the full three days can leave on Sunday afternoon or evening.
Cost for two days: £150 (BTA members) £165 (non members)
Bookings should be received by 9th September

To book a place on the retreat please complete the booking form and return it to: British Taoist Association, PO Box 2274, buckhurst Hill, IG9 5YQ

If you have any further enquiries please contact: retreats@taoists.co.uk