00 Introduction to the retreat
Alan welcomes the participants and explains some of the groundrules for the 8-week retreat. Teaching: Alan begins by presenting the framework for his cycle of teachings on shamatha, vipasyana, mind-training, dream yoga, and dzogchen. During this retreat, the instructions in the morning will focus shamatha and those in the afternoon on the 4 applications of mindfulness. Even if one has not yet realized shamatha, vipasyana practice will support shamatha and vice versa. Practice by being sweet and gentle to yourself. Most problems in meditation come from pushing too hard or too much ego. Note: Several sections concerning logistical issues have been removed from the recording.
