It’s been some years since I’ve been there. It was an amazing experience for me also. Tried quitting on my 3rd day. But I managed to stay and finish the course. Best thing I ever did in my life.
When I did the 10-day course, I refrained from hearing any opinions about Vipassana and what to expect. All I knew was that it required following the 5-principles to the T and being mentally and physically well enough to stay in silence with my thoughts for 10 hours of the day for 10 days. I wanted zero preconceived notions about the practice and I'm glad I did. Go and experience it first hand but know that it is going to be challenging and hopefully rewarding.
That's a great approach. The best piece of advice however was getting a comfortable butt pad cuz sitting for 10 hours a day on the ground is no joke haha!
Thank you for your nice and friendly video! I have now been back for 2 days from a second course this year. The first was complicated because I had just recovered from surgery. I am amazed by the simple technique of Guenka (=Vipassana) that gave me very clear illuminating insights about my presence every time. I also noticed that I have a much sharper vision of shapes and colors. I make paintings and the meditation give me a huge boost in my view of what I make. It's as if I've cleaned the lenses of my own eyes. Furthermore, my outbursts of anger have disappeared since my first course. Something that was completely out of my control. I have deep respect for the effectiveness of this technique. It's something that everyone should actually do. I see my life simpler and more beautiful. I notice that I have difficulty meditating alone. I am easily distracted.
Wow, that's amazing, thanks for sharing. You truly understand how powerful the experience is. Love how you described that: "as if I've cleaned the lenses of my own eyes"!
Very Amazing to hear about your experiences. I am going to this retreat on the 16th of November. I need all your best wishes that I can complete this retreat successfully.
Amazing! Looking forward to seeing how your content evolves from this experience. I am about to graduate college with a full-time position lined up, that for most people would be their dream job but I've been feeling this sense of anxiety about starting it. I have thought about going to one of these camps before I start the working life so I'm looking forward to seeing more of your collected thoughts when you get back. You're glowing! lol but that might the sun shining directly on your face.
Congrads! SN Goenka's Vipassana retreat was one of the best things I've every done. I understand very well some of the sentiments expressed in sharing these post retreat thoughts. It's like seeing for the first time in one's life.
Having grace of being able to sit for few 10 days vipassana course really a Life changing experience compared to other Meditation. •guided, well structured overall •Takes you in Real DEEP •Transferrable to daily life •Free accomodation, food and facilities. Private room with shower, bed, meditation seat etc •like a vacation over a week but this can benefit you, your lineages and others around you •Ground you in Equanimity, harmony and peace. Helps with ASCENSION! I highly Recommend This Technique and method of going about the meditation overall. No phones, no talking, fully focused inward towards Innerstanding and Inner connection with highest truth. Book a 10 days course nearby you now! Nothing beats having a temporary life of a full-time monk towards buddhahood
Wow how lucky you are, there are not many people who can take two weeks off to be by their own, life gose si fast that sometimes I would like everything just to stop. But I can't to many people dépends on me. But is nice to hear how could it be thank you for sharing.
I challenge you to rethink the possibility. I've encountered many who have lot's of people depending on them (family, employees etc.) who find a way to make it happen. What you may find is your ability to serve them has increased when you return. The real question is do you really want to? The how can always be figured out if you have the will.
@@noone8173 you are right, I been feeling lost, just trying to cover everything I feel responsible for. But you are so right, theres always a way out, I need to find the time to rethink my life, and regain the energy I have lost. Thank you for taking the time to connect with me.
Thanks a lot for sharing the experience, Sheng! Hope you're doing good and on the path of your true self! I'm going on the Vipassana retreat soon and hope to come again and comment on my experience for other seekers as well~ :)
I’m going to do the 10 days course here in Germany in September. I’m a bit nervous and watched the video in order to get “prepared” but I think I will stop now from doing so to not get influenced too much beforehand. But thank you so much for sharing.
I am going on this course in 18 days' time. I have resisted looking up any information as I am an overthinker by nature and I really want to go into this with an open mind. Your video was super interesting
Thanks for sharing. I have the same concern of how to keep in that mindfulness state over the long term. But I definitely see myself doing this in South Africa, hopefully soon.
I would probably go crazy because I just came back from schizophrenia after forcing myself to be back to the matrix. I went too deep into my mind that I saw reality as fluid and there was no anchor like I was just in a dream and it feels like I died. Maybe it only works for ordinary people and not for people who are by nature self-reflective.
Thanks for this amazing video. Im heading to one in the UK in a few days time. I know a lot of people in my network who have done this and they have nothing but positive stuff to say about the Vipassana Course. Would love to head to one also out there in another country. Looks so peaceful where you are in this video.
100% it did. I came away with more epiphanies than any other period in my life. There's something about prolonged stillness that allows our chaotic thoughts to settle. For example the idea for my online community Mind Map Nation (mindmapnation.com) and newsletter was born from my retreat. Now that you've "graduated", I'm curious too if it's altered your life?
Thanks for sharing Shen. I'm looking into meditation and yoga retreats and this one is certainly interesting. Although it's a bummer you aren't allowed to exercise or practice yoga at the retreat, for example.
Hi Sheng!! I was just accepted to the Vipassana 10 day course here in France. eeeee... I am scared and excited and your video made me cry and gave me courage and more excitement to have and experience this opportunity. We're you nervous going in? Cheers
Congratulations on being accepted to the Vipassana 10-day course! I'm truly touched to hear that my video moved you and provided some courage and added excitement for your upcoming experience. To answer your question, yes, I was definitely nervous going in. It's a deep dive into self-exploration and meditation, and it's normal to feel apprehensive about what you might discover and how you'll handle the experience. But remember, it's these kinds of experiences that often lead to profound personal growth and understanding. Embrace both the excitement and the fear - they're both valuable parts of the journey. Wishing you the very best for your Vipassana course. May it be an enlightening and transformative experience for you. Cheers and take care!
Great video. I am from SF too. I see there are some locations in the Bay Area and I really want to do this for the first time. I am curious why you choose to go that Far to Joshua Tree?
Choosing Joshua Tree? :) it holds a very special place in my heart. I've done quite a bit of camping out there, and there's something about the stillness and unique setting of Joshua Tree that I find incredibly powerful. The tranquility and beauty of the desert, especially in Joshua Tree, provide a perfect backdrop for introspection and connection. Thanks for the comment!
Just found your channel. Awesome videos and content.. Looks like you had a life change experience. Did you do a video on your time in the wilderness? If so, please link.
man I meditate for 20 minutes and I go berserk. 12 hours a day sounds like insanity but also likely helps you uncover certain aspects of yourself that we aren't able to see unless we really pay close attention.
See after 20 minutes that's when the magic starts :D The meditative state is very relaxing, like receiving a full body massage. It feels so great you can sit like that for hours. :))
See after 20 minutes that's when the magic starts :D The meditative state is very relaxing, like receiving a full body massage. It feels so great you can sit like that for hours. :))
So how was it for you? What were the take always? Are you able to continue the practice? I’m going next month and would love to hear your reaction. Did you post a longer reaction video?
I'm glad you're taking the dive! I haven't continued my practice, but the insights and mindfulness remain (see my video for how I deal with anger). In fact the idea for my mind mapping community originated from my retreat. It's now launched and thriving :)
@@ShengHuang Thanks. I just went in May and we wore them inside the common areas for the first four days and then removed them when everyone tested negative. Be happy.
I recommend checking directly with the specific Vipassana course center for their age policies and any teen programs they might offer... Vipassana can indeed be a profoundly challenging experience, and it's crucial that participation is a personal choice, especially for younger people. (Many of my friends who have attended, including myself, found this to be one of the hardest things we've ever done) It's about readiness and willingness to engage deeply with the practice. So, while I encourage exploring such spiritual modalities, it's also important to ensure it's a voluntary and well-considered decision!
They have a special 7 day vipasana boot camp for teenagers. They should be between 15 to 19 years. And some other short courses for 8 to 12 years as well. Just check if they have it near you.
It maybe better to collect your feelings before starting talking about your experience. Otherwise you are wasting everyone’s time. Some weird talk about nothing meh
It’s been some years since I’ve been there. It was an amazing experience for me also. Tried quitting on my 3rd day. But I managed to stay and finish the course. Best thing I ever did in my life.
When I did the 10-day course, I refrained from hearing any opinions about Vipassana and what to expect. All I knew was that it required following the 5-principles to the T and being mentally and physically well enough to stay in silence with my thoughts for 10 hours of the day for 10 days. I wanted zero preconceived notions about the practice and I'm glad I did. Go and experience it first hand but know that it is going to be challenging and hopefully rewarding.
I’m with you on that however I wanted to be sure of “rules” I guess that way I’m not following blindly
That's a great approach. The best piece of advice however was getting a comfortable butt pad cuz sitting for 10 hours a day on the ground is no joke haha!
Thank you for your nice and friendly video!
I have now been back for 2 days from a second course this year. The first was complicated because I had just recovered from surgery.
I am amazed by the simple technique of Guenka (=Vipassana) that gave me very clear illuminating insights about my presence every time. I also noticed that I have a much sharper vision of shapes and colors. I make paintings and the meditation give me a huge boost in my view of what I make. It's as if I've cleaned the lenses of my own eyes.
Furthermore, my outbursts of anger have disappeared since my first course. Something that was completely out of my control.
I have deep respect for the effectiveness of this technique. It's something that everyone should actually do. I see my life simpler and more beautiful. I notice that I have difficulty meditating alone. I am easily distracted.
Wow, that's amazing, thanks for sharing. You truly understand how powerful the experience is. Love how you described that: "as if I've cleaned the lenses of my own eyes"!
Very Amazing to hear about your experiences. I am going to this retreat on the 16th of November. I need all your best wishes that I can complete this retreat successfully.
I hope you had an amazing experience friend.
How'd it go?
How was it? I am also going in 11 days, November 29th
@@alper2001 Wish you all the best. Namo Buddhaya 🙏🏼
Underrated TH-cam channel, I don't know why TH-cam is not promoting his channel.
Thank you Vishal!
Amazing! Looking forward to seeing how your content evolves from this experience. I am about to graduate college with a full-time position lined up, that for most people would be their dream job but I've been feeling this sense of anxiety about starting it. I have thought about going to one of these camps before I start the working life so I'm looking forward to seeing more of your collected thoughts when you get back. You're glowing! lol but that might the sun shining directly on your face.
Congrads! SN Goenka's Vipassana retreat was one of the best things I've every done. I understand very well some of the sentiments expressed in sharing these post retreat thoughts. It's like seeing for the first time in one's life.
I know what you mean. The hard part however is keep going. That takes an entire lifetime really!
Having grace of being able to sit for few 10 days vipassana course really a Life changing experience compared to other Meditation.
•guided, well structured overall
•Takes you in Real DEEP
•Transferrable to daily life
•Free accomodation, food and facilities. Private room with shower, bed, meditation seat etc
•like a vacation over a week but this can benefit you, your lineages and others around you
•Ground you in Equanimity, harmony and peace. Helps with ASCENSION!
I highly Recommend This Technique and method of going about the meditation overall. No phones, no talking, fully focused inward towards Innerstanding and Inner connection with highest truth.
Book a 10 days course nearby you now! Nothing beats having a temporary life of a full-time monk towards buddhahood
I'm looking forward to your follow-on videos from this amazing experience.
Wow how lucky you are, there are not many people who can take two weeks off to be by their own, life gose si fast that sometimes I would like everything just to stop. But I can't to many people dépends on me. But is nice to hear how could it be thank you for sharing.
I challenge you to rethink the possibility. I've encountered many who have lot's of people depending on them (family, employees etc.) who find a way to make it happen. What you may find is your ability to serve them has increased when you return. The real question is do you really want to? The how can always be figured out if you have the will.
@@noone8173 you are right, I been feeling lost, just trying to cover everything I feel responsible for. But you are so right, theres always a way out, I need to find the time to rethink my life, and regain the energy I have lost. Thank you for taking the time to connect with me.
@@emiliavillegas6779 When we fly, they tell us we must put our own oxygen mask on first before helping others. I wish you well!
Thanks a lot for sharing the experience, Sheng! Hope you're doing good and on the path of your true self!
I'm going on the Vipassana retreat soon and hope to come again and comment on my experience for other seekers as well~ :)
How was it?
Update?
In my opinion, you did an EXCELLENT, very clear and articulate job at explaining.
I appreciate that! Thanks!
How exciting and inspiring Sheng - thanks for sharing and I've already started researching available courses in Europe!
Pa Auk Teachers have made major changes to the meditation system. What is wrong? What is correct? please look at Mistakes of Pa Auk Meditation.
What did you conclude re opportunities in Europe?
@@cliff6100 - Tons of options actually - all over Europe and Scandinavia!
I’m going to do the 10 days course here in Germany in September. I’m a bit nervous and watched the video in order to get “prepared” but I think I will stop now from doing so to not get influenced too much beforehand.
But thank you so much for sharing.
I am going on this course in 18 days' time. I have resisted looking up any information as I am an overthinker by nature and I really want to go into this with an open mind. Your video was super interesting
How’d it go for you?
The background music completes everything! Wonderful video. Thank you for sharing.
Thanks for sharing. I have the same concern of how to keep in that mindfulness state over the long term. But I definitely see myself doing this in South Africa, hopefully soon.
Oh it's hard man. I feel fragmented every day without doing some sort of maintenance activity like meditation, mind mapping or journaling.
I would probably go crazy because I just came back from schizophrenia after forcing myself to be back to the matrix.
I went too deep into my mind that I saw reality as fluid and there was no anchor like I was just in a dream and it feels like I died.
Maybe it only works for ordinary people and not for people who are by nature self-reflective.
Thanks for this amazing video. Im heading to one in the UK in a few days time. I know a lot of people in my network who have done this and they have nothing but positive stuff to say about the Vipassana Course.
Would love to head to one also out there in another country. Looks so peaceful where you are in this video.
Thank you so much for your kind words. It is indeed life changing. Highly recommend.
Thanks, waiting for more sharing
Sheng, that sounds like a very powerful experience.
Timeless experience . ❤
Thanks for making this video, I am so nervous to do mine. But I know I need it
You can do it! Seriously it's a commitment but it will pay dividends for life my friend.
@@ShengHuang I just finished and it was truly amazing. Thanks for your video.
Congratulations 🙂
Thanks for sharing your experience. I’m going to the course today and looking forward to it.😊 has your life changed since that day?
How's your experience?
100% it did. I came away with more epiphanies than any other period in my life. There's something about prolonged stillness that allows our chaotic thoughts to settle. For example the idea for my online community Mind Map Nation (mindmapnation.com) and newsletter was born from my retreat.
Now that you've "graduated", I'm curious too if it's altered your life?
That's amazing! I also had a life-changing experience after a 10-day course. Life doesn't look the same anymore. @@ShengHuang
Thanks for sharing Shen. I'm looking into meditation and yoga retreats and this one is certainly interesting. Although it's a bummer you aren't allowed to exercise or practice yoga at the retreat, for example.
Yes it is pretty painful in more ways than one haha! Definitely bring a foam roller for the aching back 😆
You can do yoga or basic exercises in your bedroom if you prefer, just not outside cos it distracts people.
Hi Sheng!! I was just accepted to the Vipassana 10 day course here in France. eeeee... I am scared and excited and your video made me cry and gave me courage and more excitement to have and experience this opportunity. We're you nervous going in? Cheers
Congratulations on being accepted to the Vipassana 10-day course!
I'm truly touched to hear that my video moved you and provided some courage and added excitement for your upcoming experience.
To answer your question, yes, I was definitely nervous going in. It's a deep dive into self-exploration and meditation, and it's normal to feel apprehensive about what you might discover and how you'll handle the experience.
But remember, it's these kinds of experiences that often lead to profound personal growth and understanding. Embrace both the excitement and the fear - they're both valuable parts of the journey.
Wishing you the very best for your Vipassana course. May it be an enlightening and transformative experience for you. Cheers and take care!
Mangal ho 🙏🏻be happy brother
Can u tell us more how does poetry help?
Great video. I am from SF too.
I see there are some locations in the Bay Area and I really want to do this for the first time.
I am curious why you choose to go that Far to Joshua Tree?
Choosing Joshua Tree? :) it holds a very special place in my heart. I've done quite a bit of camping out there, and there's something about the stillness and unique setting of Joshua Tree that I find incredibly powerful.
The tranquility and beauty of the desert, especially in Joshua Tree, provide a perfect backdrop for introspection and connection. Thanks for the comment!
Are any of the meditations guided at times?
Just found your channel. Awesome videos and content.. Looks like you had a life change experience. Did you do a video on your time in the wilderness? If so, please link.
Not yet! I am going back to be trained as a wilderness survival instructor this summer :)
Success to you :)
Can you please share the information on how to sign up in the retreat in Joshua tree please?
man I meditate for 20 minutes and I go berserk. 12 hours a day sounds like insanity but also likely helps you uncover certain aspects of yourself that we aren't able to see unless we really pay close attention.
See after 20 minutes that's when the magic starts :D The meditative state is very relaxing, like receiving a full body massage. It feels so great you can sit like that for hours. :))
See after 20 minutes that's when the magic starts :D The meditative state is very relaxing, like receiving a full body massage. It feels so great you can sit like that for hours. :))
So how was it for you? What were the take always? Are you able to continue the practice? I’m going next month and would love to hear your reaction. Did you post a longer reaction video?
I'm glad you're taking the dive! I haven't continued my practice, but the insights and mindfulness remain (see my video for how I deal with anger). In fact the idea for my mind mapping community originated from my retreat. It's now launched and thriving :)
Thanks for this excellent insight, Sheng. What was the Covid mask policy during your course?
We wore masks whenever we were in the meditation hall. Otherwise, none.
@@ShengHuang Thanks. I just went in May and we wore them inside the common areas for the first four days and then removed them when everyone tested negative. Be happy.
Pa Auk Teachers have made major changes to the meditation system. What is wrong? What is correct? please look at Mistakes of Pa Auk Meditation.
Where can one go for a beginner version of this?
They've got 3 day versions.
Would you recommend this course for 14 year old? Do they allowed teens?
I recommend checking directly with the specific Vipassana course center for their age policies and any teen programs they might offer... Vipassana can indeed be a profoundly challenging experience, and it's crucial that participation is a personal choice, especially for younger people. (Many of my friends who have attended, including myself, found this to be one of the hardest things we've ever done) It's about readiness and willingness to engage deeply with the practice. So, while I encourage exploring such spiritual modalities, it's also important to ensure it's a voluntary and well-considered decision!
@@ShengHuangthank you for advice ❤
They have a special 7 day vipasana boot camp for teenagers. They should be between 15 to 19 years.
And some other short courses for 8 to 12 years as well. Just check if they have it near you.
@@user-qq8jm4ir9p thank you
How much was the price? I want d to know th price yet i have to go through application
I can't speak to all locations - but the one I attended was donation-based.
I'm attracts with beautiful body ...I likes you ...I'm also beautiful boy 💗
It maybe better to collect your feelings before starting talking about your experience. Otherwise you are wasting everyone’s time. Some weird talk about nothing meh
Beautiful review:)