20. The Power of Silent Meditation Retreats: Why I Keep Coming Back

In this episode, I share my experience and insights about attending silent meditation retreats at the Insight Meditation Society (IMS) in Western Massachusetts, as I prepare for my third retreat.We explore how these retreats, while challenging, have profoundly impacted my life, work, and family. I discuss:The reality of silent retreats versus the common perception of them being "nice and peaceful"How the first few days often involve "plotting your escape" before reaching a turning pointMy journey from being forced to attend my first retreat as part of a graduate certificate to voluntarily returning for moreThe experience of disconnecting from technology and the unexpected freedom that comes with itHow these retreats helped birth The School of MOM and deepened my understanding of mindfulness and self-compassionThe profound insights gained about mothering ourselves, especially for those without healthy mother modelsThe concept of fierce self-compassion versus tender self-compassion, and how retreats helped me discover and embody bothWhy longer, dedicated practice time creates deeper insights than short daily meditation sessionsThe importance of prioritizing ourselves, even (and especially) when it feels inconvenientA key takeaway: While shorter meditation sessions are valuable, extended periods of practice can provide a "full charge" to our system, creating lasting positive effects that ripple through our lives for months to come.I also share a lighthearted moment involving a cherry tomato incident in the silent dining hall, reminding us that even in serious practice, there's room for humor.Stay tuned for insights from this upcoming retreat in future episodes!Learn more/sign up for FLOURISH: https://theschoolofmom.com/flourish Thank you for tuning in to this episode of "Mothering Ourselves Mindfully." We look forward to sharing more insights and inspiration in the upcoming episodes!www.theschoolofmom.comInstagram @the.schoolofmomBook a breakthrough Call

Fecha de Publicación: 14 de enero de 2025

Duración: 24 min