The Hazon Meditation Retreat

$560
at Isabella Freedman Retreat Center

Falls Village, CT
More Info / Registration

The Hazon Meditation Retreat

with Rabbi Jay Michaelson, Beth Resnick-Folk, Miriam Eisenberger, and Shir Yaakov Feit

Insight meditation — the practice of quieting the mind to directly observe the basic facts of our human existence — has had a major impact on Jewish spirituality for over thirty years. Blending practices from Buddhist traditions with those of Judaism has deeply enriched the lives of countless individuals, congregations, and communities. In particular, insight meditation can bring about greater peace of mind, compassion, and open-heartedness, even in difficult times. Joining this powerful practice with prayer, ritual, and mystical teachings, allows for a dynamic cross-pollination and a soulful, deep, and fulfilling spiritual journey.

This is a weeklong silent meditation retreat: an opportunity to slow down, to live simply, and to explore the fullness of your own being. Each day will include several hours of formal sitting and walking practice, contemplative morningdavvenen (chanted prayers) in a Jewish Renewal style, yoga, and instructional periods, and small group sessions, with opportunities to ask questions and receive personalized support.

 

Months later I am still accessing the deep peace I experienced on this retreat. I experienced total rejewvination  — the reset button was activated fully!

—Ken Ross

The teachers are so awesome. Beth’s vulnerability, Jay’s humor…. All so sweet and wonderful. I really appreciate them!

—Kathy Hennis

The retreat includes nightly talks by the teachers drawing from Jewish, Buddhist, and other contemplative traditions, nourished by psychology, neurobiology, and social justice. Talks and teachings will support participants to navigate the range of their experience on retreat. Still maintaining the silence of the retreat, we will celebrate Shabbat joyously together, with Kabbalat Shabbat and Saturday morning davennen, including a Torah service led by Rabbi Phyllis Berman.

For beginners, this retreat is an excellent opportunity to explore meditation in a supportive, warm, and non-judgmental environment. Although spending a week in silence can seem intimidating, the Elat Chayyim community is warm and welcoming, the food is delicious, and the natural beauty of the Isabella Freedman Retreat Center provides inspiration and comfort. And for more advanced practitioners, Beth, Jay, Shir Yaakov, and Miriam are committed to the principle that meditation practice can deepen and develop in profound ways, and this retreat is designed to help you take the next steps that are right for you.

Registration will go online in late summer.

Check out this short video by Rabbi Michaelson about the value of a silent meditation retreat: