Workshop 2024

Adapted to Covid conditions

These events are facilitated in French with eventual accommodation for English translation according to the need. Could also be facilitated in English on request.

For more detailed descriptions, see Texts – on the right and click on a topic.

SATORI Zen Retreat –Who Am I? / Who Is In?

* July 14 (eve) to 18, 2024
Kio-o Center – Ste-Lucie-des-Laurentides
BOOKING: info@kio-o.ca
                             Tél : 819-326-6121

A few days out of the world to take the time to deeply drop off in oneself and eventually find a clearer personal direction in these troubled times in the world and in the fluctuating phases of one’s own life.
It is a chance to slow down to come together internally by engaging in a practice of presence based on the exploration of life koans.
This approach widens the gaze. It is a way of looking that helps to perceive one self and others with more clarity which raises the kindness needed to have the courage to be who you are – without shame and without pride, just true.
This process is carried by a Zen structure which leads to silence (outside of the koan communication exercises) and to a beneficent aloneness allowing a rare inner dive – we experiment being alone / together.
There will be times for Qi Gong, meditation, inspiring readings and commentaries, eventual walks in the forest and for resting to balance the flow of the retreat – not to mention the magnificent surrounding nature and the warm welcome from the Kio-o center team.
Chandrakala also meets with each person individually to support them along their process.
A koan is a quest, a basic questioning on the fundamental themes of our existence: Who am I? Who is in? What is life? What is another? What is Love? Truth? Freedom? Trust? Etc.
A Satori is a deep experience of totality which opens a space of clarity and of union within oneself. Something which cannot be forced but can be invited by cultivating a state of presence leading to consciousness.
The process is both simple and powerful. It allows to find a real inner ground from where one can reconcile with the great jazz of human condition and take life as an opportunity for personal growth.