Vipassana (Insight Meditation) Stage Two

These courses are highly recommended for those who have completed the House of Dhamma Introductory course or who have already practised in the Mahasri Sayadaw (or Section 5, Wat Mahadhatu) tradition and who wish to brush up their practice or to refine it.

What are the main aims?

* To give participants a chance to intensify their practice
* To clarify the differences between Vipassana and Samatha practice
* To give meditators feedback on their practice and gently guide them away from misunderstandings and non-beneficial habits that may have developed over time.

How much is it?

There is a suggested energy exchange of 6,000 baht per person for group sessions including lunches, snacks and printed materials.

Note: Some work exchange positions may be available for meditators who have participated in previous House of Dhamma activities

Is the course silent?

On the first day, only the group meditation sessions are silent. On the second day, only instruction times and feedback sessions are not silent.

Are there any rules to be kept during the course?

Yes. Participants keep 5 precepts during the course.

Alcohol, stimulants and any non-prescription drugs are not permitted. Smoking is not allowed in public spaces.

The use of mobile phones and any other communication media is very strongly discouraged - except in emergencies.

How do I apply?

A formal application is necessary and a deposit of 3,000 baht is to be paid at least 7 days before the first day of the course with the balance paid on arrival at the House of Dhamma.

Applications must be made in writing and sent by post or by e-mail to dhamma.art@gmail.com:

Do I have to be a Buddhist to take part?

No, it is not necessary, but you do need to be tolerant of Buddhist concepts and rituals. You do not need to take part in ritual.

Can I join if I have formerly practised Vipassana in other Buddjist traditions?

This should be discussed with the teacher before applying. In general, it will be more beneficial to do the Vipassana Introductory course first, followed by a period of private practice.

Is this course suitable for children?

This course is more suitable for those over 18 years old, who have had previous expereince of this method of meditation.

Can I record the Dhamma talks and other periods of instruction?

Yes, and taking notes is encouraged.

☼ These courses remind you of the differences between Vipassana (Insight) meditation and Samatha (Calmness) meditation.

☼ They provide ongoing feedback in an interactive and personal way. The maximum number of participants is six.

☼ Although many sessions are silent, there is plenty of opportunity to ask questions.

☼ They assume that the participants’ life experiences that brought them to the course will be different and that each person is wonderfully unique.

☼ Whilst participants are given a short explanation of Theravadan Buddhist ritual, nobody is expected to participate in that ritual if he or she feels uncomfortable.

☼ The shrine room is air-conditioned and chairs are provided if preferred.

*You will discuss the differences between Samatha (Concentration) meditation and Vipassana (Insight) meditation.

*You will discuss how meditation forms an integral part of 'Bhavana’ mental development and how it relates the Noble Eightfold Path.

*You will share how you have integrated Bhavana into your life.

*You will be introduced to and practise follow-up walking and sitting exercises to improve your concentration and bare awareness 'sati'.

Name of course

Date of course

Mr/Mrs/ Miss/Ms. + Name

Surname/Family name

Address in Thailand

Permanent address (if different)

Mobile phone

Tel

Fax

e-mail

Age

Please give brief details of any previous meditation experience.

Occupation

Nationality