Comments on: Vern’s 22 Day Meditation Course

By: Catherine

Catherine — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 00:08:58 +0000

Rick, keeping to a schedule will be tough – which is why I’m hoping my iPhone’s don’t break the chain app will help.

I’m also wondering how my cats are going to react. I can’t even visit the ladies without them whining outside the door and scratching at the flaps.

Today is day one. I’ll take notes of my progress (and theirs ;-)
Catherine´s last blog ..Thai Language Thai Culture: Telephone Thai

By: SiamRick

SiamRick — Sun, 07 Mar 2010 16:55:46 +0000

I took two semesters of evening yoga classes at a local school six or seven years ago. I remember the pinprick of realization that I am learning something new and I need to practise this. Well, modern life and all, I didn’t do anything once the classes stopped. But I did take away the experience of relaxing, even for a few minutes. I started doing it at home but, again, fell out of the habit quickly because, well, there’s so much else to do.

But I did start to use the techniques of meditating while walking, while sitting quietly in my office chair trying to calm everything after the latest idiocy, while sitting on public transit, while waiting in lineups. Even if I was able to calm myself for a minute or two or five, I felt better about it.

So I was interested in what Vern has to say. I’ve read his introduction and first day of meditation, as well as his thoughts on mindfulness. For example, his being in the present while washing dishes, I’ve done. Strange how the simplest activity can be involving and calming. Instead of rushing through it so you can do something else, stay in the present, if you want to find a way to rest the mind and gain benefits from that activity!

His first day I thought was really helpful and sensible. Vern’s approach and thoughts really appeal to me.

Catherine, you have a delightful way of popping up with most interesting blog ideas. Thanks.
SiamRick´s last blog ..Canadian boys need to toughen up

By: Catherine Wentworth

Catherine Wentworth — Fri, 05 Mar 2010 10:49:29 +0000

Jo, Excellent! I would prefer a weekend meditating around rolling waves somewhere, but a beach retreat would have to wait as I’m an impatient person (hence, my drive to learn meditation now :-)

I’m starting on Monday, so I will know more in the next week or so. And just like my 30 Days Thai language trial, I’ll keep a record on my iPhone. But I won’t post weekly.

By: jo

jo — Fri, 05 Mar 2010 05:20:55 +0000

Feel free to ask :)

There are also some good temples that offer weekend retreats in the greater Bangkok area if you don’t want to go too far but the ebook looks like a great start.
jo´s last blog ..Phrase Lesson 3: General answers (Audio)

By: Catherine Wentworth

Catherine Wentworth — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 13:10:21 +0000

Hey Jo, I’ve heard about the retreats but I am so far away from knowing about meditation that I’ll have to wait. Patiently.

Yeah, I know… I should just jump into life and not depend so much on research and all… but…

Ya… now I know who to come to when I have more questions :-)

By: jo

jo — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 12:35:08 +0000

Cat, being so focused is great! If you get more experienced with meditation you will be able to stay mindful for longer and longer periods of time. It is quite an interesting feeling to be so aware of everything around you :) (it just lasts for some hours for me after doing some meditation)

People should really take advantage and get into meditation while staying in Thailand. I saw this with my friend Jay. He could not meditate for a long time but he kept on trying and eventually it worked for him. It is similar to learning Thai, you just have to keep on trying and do it on a daily basis. Even just a little bit helps.

There are also good beginner retreats here in Thailand in which you learn the basics of vipassana and walking and sitting meditation.

And now breath in – breath out – count 1 – breath in – breath out – count 2…. (up to 10 and then begin again). This is a very basic way of doing meditation and works for many. You can also focus on the up and down of your chest or the air coming in and out of your nose to aid your concentration.
jo´s last blog ..Phrase Lesson 3: General answers (Audio)