Retreats at the Samadhi Center

Samadhi is an ancient Sanskrit word for which there is no modern equivalent. It was chosen as the name for this center because it honors the spirit of the traditions which have helped connect people to their true nature for thousands of years. To realize Samadhi is to learn to die before you die. Within different traditions the word Samadhi has many different meanings, which can lead to much confusion. Rather than trying to define it, we guide participants towards a direct realization of it. It is not something to be understood with the mind, because it is ultimately a cessation of identification with the limited mind, and eventually a relaxing of the egoic mind’s control over one’s life. However it is extremely beneficial to study and shape the mind into a tool that will support Samadhi, as opposed to hindering it. To the limited mind Samadhi must must remain a mystery, while prajna or wisdom is the realization of our true nature. Samadhi is realized directly through pure forms of deep meditation, prayer and self-inquiry, as well as working with and merging with the inner world and inner energy. It flowers into its full expression as the wisdom attained in meditation is integrated into every day life, and as levels of self are realized, purified, and come into alignment with the immanent Self. 

Meditation Retreats

A meditation retreat is an opportunity to move out of the endless patterns of doing to experience simply being; to become a true human-being as opposed to a human-doing. It is not an escape from your life, nor is it a holiday or time for relaxation, but rather it can be likened to doing deep surgery on one’s entire being. Intensive meditation helps one to become free from the conditioned patterns that cause suffering. Rather than an escape from life, it is actually the way to engage more fully with life, to cultivate greater equanimity and presence in every facet of one’s existence. It is now becoming well-known that practicing meditation provides many benefits such as improved heath, stress reduction, improved productivity, improved mental focus, emotional stability and improvements in overall well-being. These are all valuable benefits to one’s life, yet the true gift of meditation is to realize Samadhi, which is immeasurably greater than anything that could be conveyed in mere words. Samadhi is the 8th and final part of the Buddha’s noble eightfold path, and the 8th limb of Patanjali’s 8 limbs of yoga, and is described as a “union” or collapse of duality which is unfathomable to the dualistic mind.

Rather than following one particular tradition, we borrow from many traditions freely. It is our understanding that there is one perennial truth or transcendent reality which is reflected in the many world spiritual traditions, and it is our intention to convey our unique expression of it using all available means. Those who are familiar with Vipassana retreats or the Zen Sesshin format will find a similar level of structure and opportunity for deep meditation practice. In our retreats we incorporate (but are not limited to) facets of the Zen sesshin, elements from the Vipassana traditions, as well as Christian mysticism, the yogic traditions, Vedanta, Samkhya, and non-dualism and others. All traditions and teachings are merely pointers to the unfathomable inner source which is beyond the limited egoic mind. The facilitators, provide instructions and teachings as needed throughout the retreats, as well as private consultation. .

The Zen term “sesshin” means something like “gathering the heart-mind”, and this phrase reflects the essence of our meditation retreats. The sesshin is a period of intensive practice, during which all efforts and energies are focused or “gathered” for the purpose of awakening out of one’s conditioned or unconscious patterns and recognizing a new level of consciousness; a consciousness in which the egoic mind becomes a servant to the heart. Likewise, Vipassana, one of the world’s oldest meditation techniques taught 2500 years ago by the Buddha, is a process of deep self inquiry and purification. In the same way the 8 limbs of yoga are aimed at purifying oneself through deep concentration and surrender in order to reach Samadhi. Regardless of which teachings one is familiar with, it is our intention to allow participants to explore the experiential truth that comes through single-pointed concentration and inner non-resistance. Through meditation practice we are able to observe and purify the self structure, which is the cause of all suffering, and to awaken the spiritual heart which is beyond name and form. The spiritual heart has gone by many names throughout history and is also known as the true self, the selfless self, Atman (soul), Anatta or “no self”, Buddha nature, and Christ Consciousness.

Meditation Techniques

At the Samadhi Center our team of experienced meditators offer and explore many effective techniques to assist you on your inner journey. As one moves toward inner stillness, one lets go of any technique or anything that is held in the mind. We simply allow reality to be as it is, which means a surrender, inner letting go and eventual cessation of the egoic mind structures, including techniques. At the beginning one uses techniques to cultivate the capacity for unwavering concentration on the meditation object. Like two wings of a bird the two aspects of duality, Shakti and Shiva, surrender and presence, yin and yang, carry one to Samadhi. Check out the core guided meditations here.

SELF INQUIRY

The self inquiry practice at the Samadhi Center has evolved over many years. It is in many ways similar to the Charles Berner technique, which combines the ancient self inquiry, ‘Who Am I,’ with a Western psychology technique developed by Ava Berner called the relating dyad. Working in partners, one person witnesses while the other engages in the inner investigation of who they are. The result is a quickening of the awakening of the primordial self or one’s true nature. Rather than spending years at a monastery, it is possible for some people to realize their true nature within a few days. After decades of refinement of this technique it has been observed that typically 20-30% of people at a self inquiry intensive will experience kensho or samadhi.

DYADS

Based on the self inquiry of Ramana Maharshi, insights from the Zen tradition, the Charles Berner self inquiry method as well as the dyad techniques used in modern psychology, this self inquiry creates conditions of no escape for the ego structure. Working continuously from early morning to late at night, participants alternate roles in dyads (groups of two), where one person is a witness and the other engages in deep inner investigation to realize their true nature.

BREATH WORK

At our longer retreats retreat there is a breath work component. The system used is called “Elemental Breathing”, which is designed to facilitate a deep letting go and healing of past experiences. It is facilitated by John Cross who is trained in this system.

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Other Tools and Modalities

Each day there is “group process” where participants check in with the facilitators, share experiences and ask questions. Techniques are offered to help participants move beyond the hindrances that come up in meditation, and it is generally a time to share what we have learned on the path of awakening.

YAZA

Yaza is a Zen/Japanese Buddhist term which means “extra” meditation, and has also taken on the meaning of “night meditation”. At our retreats we offer participants the opportunity to meditate through the night. While yaza is optional, sitting at night can allow for a profound deepening of meditative states, and the possibility for exploration of the immaterial jhanas.

SILENCE

Participants will have the opportunity to stay connected to their inner energy and oriented inward towards awareness itself by maintaining silence throughout the retreat. Although there is no talking, gesturing or writing between participants, the silence is held in a way that can foster a deep connection to each other; a compassionate contribution to the group’s practice. There will be opportunities for questions and discussion during the daily group process, and in working with the facilitators. At times it may be necessary to communicate verbally in order to complete certain work, in which case speaking is allowed for that purpose only. We want to avoid chatting and activation of the mind so that we can come to a place of inner peace and stillness. “Be still and know.

SOUND MEDITATION

The ancient spiritual teachers taught “nada Brahma”; the universe is vibration (emptiness dancing).

Sound has been used for healing and transformation for thousands of years in cultures around the world. Everything in the universe is vibrating in a cosmic symphony. At the Samadhi Center a variety of instruments may be used during sound meditations. In particular we feel that the gong is a special instrument that can be used as powerful meditation tool. We have 6 Paiste gongs, including an incredible custom 55″ gong which produces a unique sound experience. During sound meditation people can be sitting, lying down, or moving in response to the vibration. We encourage people to experience the transcendent effects of the gongs through their inner energy rather than through the mind, to realize aspects of the inner world which may otherwise be hidden.

Each day there is a sound journey using gongs, singing bowls and other instruments to connect you deeply to the inner worlds and to help move stuck energies. In addition the group will do a type of free vocalizing or sounding that allows the voice to be expressed unmediated by the conditioned mind. This process helps one to get themselves out of the way and to find their authentic voice.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 UJ Ramdas 
 
2024-02-15
 
 
  
If you're serious about inner work, the Samadhi Center can change your life.

I've been meditating since before I was a teen and have been to a bunch of ashrams and meditation retreats. And yet, I've done some of the best spiritual work of my life at the retreats here.

Here's the thing: this place isn't for the merely curious. It's for the truly sincere seeker.

I've known Dan (the founder) for over ten years and I feel very thankful to call him a friend.

I've done multiple retreats here and the major thing that that's different here?

They really care. And that shows up in all the details: the structure of the retreats, the way Dan screens folks that wouldn't be a good fit, the reasonable pricing and the scholarships and frequent Q&A's with the participants.

I'm deeply thankful this place exists. I'd be a different person if it didn't. It’s a real gift to the world.
  
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 Matthew Starkey 
 
2024-01-28
 
 
  
Words will never be able to describe the mystical experience I had while in retreat at the Samadhi Center. I will try my best to capture this magic in a bottle…
From the sacred grounds within an old growth forest to the most professional staff, my life will be forever changed. I basked for 9 days in pure presence and discovered Truth. It was here that I lost everything and was completely unborn into a limitless being of pure awareness. My world was absolutely shattered and I was left knowing nothing at all except a direct experience of my True Self. A feeling of absolute bliss.
  
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 Dmitry Grishchenko 
 
2023-12-26
 
 
  
Я благодарен за то, что мне дали возможность быть частью команды! За то, что я могу нести свет и знания русскоязычному населению планеты! Я обязательно к вам приеду ребята. Я это чувствую! Намасте 🕊️✨🙏
  
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 Mitch Moss 
 
2023-12-10
 
 
  
During the Nov ‘23 IAM retreat at the Samadhi Center, I experienced for myself what I had spent 10 years conceptually learning about. For me, the Center became the perfect place to let go. Words simply cannot do justice of this 9 day journey; I can only say that it was life changing in the best possible way and if you feel called, then I couldn’t recommend it any higher 🙏🏻💚
  
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 Martin Pelletier 
 
2023-12-09
 
 
  
There's is no words that can describe how grateful I am to have visited this meditation center. Dan and Lila are amazing human beings as well as all the staff. this experience has forever change my life. If you are looking to alter the direction of your life in a positive way, this is the place to go.
  
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 kmegahey 
 
2023-12-05
 
 
  
My adventure into my inner being, after watching the series of films and interviews with Dan, led me to the Samadhi Centre. So much of the depictions and words rang true and I felt this to be a natural step forward on my spiritual journey. I wasn’t disappointed, the immediate handing over of all digital devices and the adoption of silence for the next nine days was challenging to say the least.

The daily schedule of  five hours meditation beginning at 5.30am was daunting, the vigorous self-enquiry Dyads thrust you relentlessly into self introspection, all carefully guided and choreographed by Dan and Lilla. My initial micro-dosing of Iboga didn’t appear to have the desired affect, but on day three while lying in my cosy little cabin, it revealed itself to me in waves of effortless clarity.

The Dyads became more illuminating as I was able to delve deeper into the ‘self’ and move ever closer to my true nature. The frequent transition from one person to another meant we got to know each others’ most intimate inner details, at the same time we helped each other, on our journey on the ’pathless path’. There was no escape. Timely interventions from Dan and Lilla continued until finally awakening revealed itself. Change was immediate and there would be no going back.

This was all interspersed with Gong/sound bathes, daily group discussions on how each one was progressing, hindrances to progress, how one could overcome obstacles and again insightful sound bites of wisdom from both Dan and Lilla were always welcome and helpful. Of course, I must also mention the daily, delicious food served to us and consumed in silence, by Andrew and Liz.

It didn’t end there. On day five Chad joined the group, to led us through what was loosely called ‘breath work’. It comprised of a three part breath of inhalation, followed by a strong exhalation, lasting approximately one hour without interruption. During which time, there was a slow gradual build up of energy throughout the entire body until suddenly and without warning, I felt transported into a place of stillness, silence and serenity. Without going into too much detail I’ll just say, a place where Love was in abundance.

It didn’t end there. The following day Chad introduced us to the option of experiencing, different amounts 5meo or not at all, it was a personal choice. I chose the middle path and decided to deepen even further this spiritual path which I had knowingly undertaken. Again, without going into too much detail I will simply say that it was/is the most enriching, life changing, mind altering, experience of my life and  for which, I will be eternally grateful to Dan, Lilla and Chad.
  
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 Daniel White 
 
2023-11-22
 
 
  
The Samadhi Center's IAM retreat is spectacular from start to finish. This place has all the elements required for Awakening. I loved all the unique and creative aspects the course exhibited from day to day. There is nothing else quite like this anywhere in the world. The Zendo is of the highest quality, as they spared at no expense. I am especially greatful for the compassionate support I was provided with during my trip. If you're looking for a game changing meditation course that will help you break free from the Matrix, this is it.
  
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 InnerCreations LiveNow 
 
2023-11-21
 
 
  
This place is the ordinary to extraordinary there is no retreat  on the Earth that holds a container as tightly as Lilla and Dan. The team was absolutely amazing in every way. It literally was the answer to every riddle I could never find the answer too and it changed my life in ways that words could never describe. If you are called to the Samadhi Center all you thought you knew wont help you it is best to drop all you know, so that the not knowing mind can show up on the first day.  Plus Lilla and Dan and their team give a whole new meaning to All is welcome :) No one left behind. Come and find out don't take my word for it. Experience the direct experience for yourself and then start living the aliveness that comes from within where it has always been. Sign up for the online retreat and set aside the 7 days that will be all you ever need to open yourself to the truth and the searching will be over.
Love Tayama
  
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 Bhavna Kasturia 
 
2023-11-10
 
 
  
The 3 days at the self inquiry retreat have been deeply transformative. There was no doing it seems from my part but the Dyad process is able to go deep into the subconscious mind and cleanse it. What remains, which is the simplicity of being, that shines through and is felt. I have never felt this before, just to be!
For those who wish to go deeper beyond practices, words, books and oneself, this is it!
  
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 Bill Heilmann 
 
2023-11-08
 
 
  
Just wonderful! Come with an open mind and an open heart. The staff are so loving and so kind beings. If you're ready to begin to know who you really are, I highly recommend Dan and his wonderful support team. With much love and respect. Bill 🙏❤️