INNER SILENCE. in Bhutan

Transcription

1 Mystic-Asia 21 st Feb 1 st March 2011 INNER SILENCE in Bhutan The Programme Inner Silence Recognised as the last surviving Himalayan Kingdom, Bhutan is true to its cultural, spiritual and social traditions. Embark on a spiritual journey through the western and central valleys and embrace the inner silence that is reflected in the natural beauty and Buddhist teachings of Bhutan.

2 Using a simple Buddhist technique called Mindfulness this eight-night kora (journey) through four of Bhutan s valleys, is intnded to develop a deeper understanding of oneself. We will gradually and progressively be taken to spaces inside ourselves and through a series of simple guided exercises, calm our minds, so that the inner peace of our true nature can begin to surface. After learning the basic principles of the inter-connectedness of the three activities of the breath, body and mind, we will learn how to master each one individually. The Four Noble truths and Thought Transformation will then be easier to grasp. Mala will combine some Buddhist techniques with her knowledge of Vedantic principles to make the teaching more approachable. Each day will be structured to focus on a specific spiritual practice as well as an internal practice to facilitate individual self-awareness. The kora is designed to remain light and fun so that beginners as well as seasoned practitioners on the spiritual path can easily take part.

3 The Venue Amankora Amankora has created a series of lodges in order to discover and comprehend the extraordinary wonders of Bhutan, the Land of the Thunder Dragon. The lodges are created to provide a circular pilgrimage in Bhutan s breathtakingly spectacular central and western valleys. In its inimitable style Amankora will support your inner journey with outer comforts. Profile: Mala Barua Mala Barua is the founder of Mystic- Asia and a teacher of Inner Silence Meditation. She also teaches Dhyan (Mindful Yoga) and Tai Chi which she learnt during her years in Singapore and Hong Kong. Dedicated to bringing the rich spiritual heritage of her beloved country to the modern world she combines luxury travel with wellness and holistic teachings to enhance the travellers outer journey with inner wisdom. Her own journey is under the guidance of Swami Anubhavananda, a teacher of Vedanta. She is also a freelance travel writer for Vogue India, Travel+Leisure, Asiaspa and Condenast Traveller etc.

4 Itinerary DAY 1 ARRIVAL IN THE LAND OF THE THUNDER DRAGON 7pm Evening orientation & introduction of the program structure, objectives and commitments by Mala Barua Guests arriving on morning flights will have a chance to do a small hike in the afternoon, or explore Thimphu town Overnight: Thimphu DAY 2 DAY OF NOTHING TO DO AND NOWHERE TO GO 8am 9am Introduction to Zen Walking Understanding the separateness of mind/body/breath 7pm 8pm Guided practice of breath awareness (pranayama) 8.30pm Dinner Activities throughout the day can be hikes to monasteries, shopping in town and/or an exploration of the local museums. Overnight: Thimphu DAY 3 DAY OF THE BOAR AND SNAKE RACE Understanding the consciousness of the body 9am - 10am Breakfast 10am Drive to Gangtey with Picnic Lunch and awareness practices along the way. Activity for the day will be the travel and a walk in the Gangtey valley to collect wild plants 7pm 8pm Guided practice of body awareness

5 Overnight Gangtey DAY 4 DAY OF REINCARNATION AND THE CIRCLE OF LIFE Understanding the mind 7pm 8pm Practice of pranayama and a short meditation based on thought awareness. Activity for the day would include a hike or drive to the Gangtey Goempa and exploration of the Gangtey Valley. Overnight Gangtey DAY 5 DAY OF THE FOUR HARMONIOUS FRIENDS 8am 9 am Practice of Zen Walking Understanding thought transformation 10am Travel to Punakha 7pm 8pm Practice of pranayama and a short meditation on the chidakash dharana Activity for the day will be the travel and visit to the Punakha Dzong. Overnight Punakha

6 DAY 6 DAY OF DIVINE MADNESS Understanding silence Practice of Mindful walking during the day 7pm 8pm Practice of Laughter Yoga followed by a creative Divine Madness exercise. Activity for the day is the trek up to the Temple of the Divine Madman and time to experience inner silence. Overnight: Punakha DAY 7 DAY OF THE FOUR NOBLE TRUTHS Understanding the Four Noble Truths 10am Travel to Paro after breakfast 7pm 8pm Discussion on Mindfulness Activity for the day is the travel to Paro and visit to a Lhakhang in the afternoon. Overnight: Paro DAY 8 FLYING TO TIGERS NEST ON THE WINGS OF THE MIND 8am 9am Breakfast 9am Mindful walk to Taktshang Goempa (Tigers Nest) 7pm Evening of sharing and conclusion of program Additional Activities for the day can include the exploration of Paro Town, nature walks or a visit to spiritual sites. Overnight: Paro DAY 9 DEPARTURE FROM BHUTAN Programs ends For bookings mysticasia.in@gmail.com or call