Peace As Practice
Jon Aaron
A daylong meditation retreat dedicated to cultivating qualities of the heart-mind.

hosted by the University of Chicago Office of Spiritual Life and the University of Chicago Buddhist Association

This day will be held largely in Noble Silence, including giving ourselves a well needed break from our devices . This can support us to unravel our nervous systems and experience a more natural, luminous nature of mind. 

Together we will explore ancient teachings about heart practices, and how these work in tandem with mindfulness. Grounded in a Buddhist orientation as well as drawing on other wisdom traditions, we will learn about and practice what is referred to as the Four Divine Abodes: loving-friendliness (metta), compassion (karuna), resonant joy (mudita) and equanimity (upekkha). Each of these practices is understood as appropriate responses to what arises internally and in our world. In this way, we can develop a more capacious, sustainable and creative way of meeting life's challenges.

 The day will include sitting meditation, walking meditation, chanting, poetry and short dharma talks. Prior meditation experience will of course be helpful, though instruction will be offered. There will be time for Q&A and tips on meditation posture.

This day is offered freely, though there will be an opportunity to practice dana (generosity).

It is necessary to register in advance.