Retreats
By definition, to “retreat” is the act of moving away or withdrawing from a situation when faced with danger or difficulty.
Hence the purpose of attending a retreat is to allow oneself space and the opportunity to take a step back from the onslaught of daily distractions, to recharge and regroup, with the aspiration to return to the world with a better perspective.
Whether on a solitary or group retreat, each person takes a road less travelled and journeys into personal discovery to explore a more enlightened way of being.
For most part of the year, Paramita Meditation Centre welcomes visitors who can choose to either practice with some form of guidance, or enjoy the freedom of personal introspection and meditation. As such, a daily retreat schedule is available to those who would like to follow the familiar rhythm traditional Buddhist monastics abide by in their practice.
| Time | Retreat |
|---|---|
| 05.00 hrs | Wake up |
| 06.00 hrs | Meditation |
| 07.00 hrs | Morning Puja (Optional) |
| 07.30 hrs | Morning Meal |
| 09.00 hrs | Meditation & Metta Practice |
| 11.30 hrs | Noon Puja (Optional) |
| 12.00 hrs | Midday Meal |
| 13.00 hrs | Rest & Housekeeping |
| 14.30 hrs | Meditation |
| 16.30 hrs | Rest & Housekeeping / One-to-One Consultation |
| 18.00 hrs | Light-Snack & Hot Beverages (Optional) |
| 19.00 hrs | Evening Puja (Optional) |
| 19.30 hrs | Meditation |
| 21.30 hrs | Retire |
Group Retreats
For larger groups from six to 20 persons, the Centre is able to customise retreat subject matter, engage experienced teachers in that area and plan schedules upon request. Please provide us with an advanced notice of at least 8 weeks ahead to make appropriate arrangements. Retreats usually are designed as five, seven or 10 days and beyond.
Ever so often, Paramita Meditation Centre also invites distinguished Buddhist teachers from all over the globe to set their own retreat intentions for all to participate in.
Puja
The striking of the wooden gong echoes starkly throughout the natural surroundings of Paramita Meditation Centre, signalling the start of puja.
Pujas are daily ceremonies of chanting and offering of light, incense and flowers to the Buddha. Pujas are performed three times a day in the Main Shrine and Meditation Hall. All are welcome to join in and it is optional.
This daily offering of light, incense and flowers to the Buddha is not only a mark of respect towards our Teacher, but also a consistent reminder to recognise and awaken the Buddha within us. In doing so, we to hope to bring forth the best versions of ourselves as we go through life.
This daily offering of light, incense and flowers to the Buddha is not only a mark of respect towards our Teacher, but also a consistent reminder to recognise and awaken the Buddha within us. In doing so, we to hope to bring forth the best versions of ourselves as we go through life.
On full moon or poya days, a special evening puja is conducted at 7pm, attracting hundreds of devoted followers from the villages around the Centre.
