Lovingkindness meditation (metta) is a practice that teaches us how to cultivate forgiveness, kindness, open-hearted friendship and love toward ourselves and toward others. Originating in the Buddhist meditation traditions, metta practice has come to the West in recent decades, and is now used by people of all backgrounds and affiliations to open the heart and develop patience, compassion and acceptance. It has the capacity to heal, soften, and regenerate body, mind and spirit.

This retreat will teach the various techniques of lovingkindness meditation in sitting and walking meditation, and there will be ample time for practice. Since metta is a happiness practice, we can relax and sit comfortably in chairs or on cushions, no special postures are required. This retreat is suitable for all levels of experience, including those new to meditation and to the retreat experience.

There will be handouts to support your home practice, and the book Lovingkindness: the Revolutionary Art of Happiness by Sharon Salzberg (Shambhala Publications) is recommended but not required.