Monastic Day: The Five Hindrances at Spirit Rock

In this daylong exploration of the five hindrances to meditation practice, we will draw on various teachings from the Buddha that explain the hindrances with descriptive and memorable similes, and instruct us on how to overcome them.

This practice lays the groundwork for deeper states of concentration that are needed for the development of penetrating insight as well as very peaceful states of mind. There will be periods of instruction, guided sitting meditation, walking meditation, and time for questions and answers.

Lunch: Please bring lunch and, if you wish, food to offer the monks. As in the time of the Buddha, the Abhayagiri monks do not grow or buy food and are completely dependent on donations of food. The monastics eat one main meal a day in late morning and monastic regulations require that they finish by midday. Offering food to the monastics during the daylong provides an opportunity to participate in the tradition. Other donations are also gratefully accepted for Abhayagiri Monastery, though are by no means required. You can request a current list of needed items by contacting the monastery at (707) 485-1630.