walking meditation

For our ‘walking meditation’ session, we expected to go on a peaceful stroll through the bush. Instead we deviated from the footpath and bushwalked for more than two hours through a dense forest to reach the cliff of the mountain. Nonetheless, the magnificent view of the expansive forest was well worth the sweat, leg aches and tears.

We began our ‘walk’ in a single silent line. We were told by the Venerable to concentrate on our breathing with each step we took. However, our walk turned into a hike when the Venerable led us through a path where we began climbing up large, unstable boulders and sliding down steep slopes. It was too difficult to stay silent any longer as we couldn’t help but shout “Watch out!” or “Be careful” any time we thought someone was about to slip or fall. Although we were no longer silent, each group showed great teamwork as they instinctively worked together to help one another up the mountain. We were amazed and impressed to see how fit the Venerable was, as he swiftly moved ahead of us while we all struggled to keep up with him.

After much struggle, we finally reached what we thought was our final destination. For most of the parents it was, but for all the enthusiastic youngsters, we continued to climb all the way to the top of the cliff and left our parents and older HTR behind for their much needed rest.

The rest of the climb proved to be twice as difficult and tiring. The slopes were steeper, the rocks were a lot more slippery and we had to continuously fight back branches that were in our way. We could feel our leg muscles become tenser and our sweat seeping through our ao lam. It was a great relief when we finally reached the cliff and we felt a sudden rush of exhilaration as we took in the amazing view. For a few minutes, our prior feelings of pain and exhaustion were forgotten as we sat and meditated right on the edge of the cliff, breathing in the fresh, mountain air. The Venerable spoke about the mountains, likening its unrestrained and nurturing nature to our parent’s love. We felt very relaxed and peaceful as it is not often we get to be so close with nature and escape our busy working lives and studies, where it is a lot more difficult for us to find the time to embrace the natural wonders which surround us.

As the sun began to set, we couldn’t stay at the cliff for much longer. Walking back was just as agonising and seemed endless. Even the youngsters had to have rests along the way and some even found walking sticks to support themselves on the hike back. But like all things, our walk came to an end. Despite our struggles along the way, it felt very uplifting and satisfying to have completed the hike.

Sunday and Monday we spent at the Sunnataram Forest Monastery,

Under the guidance of Venerable (Pramana).

Never have we felt so peaceful and calm, taking a break from our busy lives and

Not using technology such as the internet and TV for two days.

Always learning about the history of Buddhism,

The Venerable has ignited our inquisitive minds, to

Always ask questions to gain a deeper understanding of Buddha’s teachings.

Relaxed is how we felt throughout the entire retreat,

Amazing food was lovingly prepared by our parents.

Meditation helped us to clear our minds,

Freeing our thoughts to concentrate on our breathing.

Our time spent at the Monastery was an enriching and joyous experience,

Remembering all that that Venerable has taught us,

Each day we will attempt to practice Buddha’s teachings,

So that we can lead a happy and fulfilling life,

To become dutiful Buddhist disciples.

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