Natural Empathy: Being a Giver Without Giving Up

Natural Empathy: Being a Giver Without Giving Up

Sunday, June 12th, 2011
Registration 9:30 - 9:45 AM
Teaching 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Springboard Studio, 530 Carpenter Lane, Philadelphia PA 19119
Map/Directions

How can we deepen compassion, but not become so identified with the suffering of others that we lose touch with our own well-being?

In this one-day retreat, Lama Willa Miller will introduce us to the practice of Natural Empathy, an ancient Tibetan method of self-care that helps us temper the "fight or flight" response we often feel when faced with our own suffering or that of others. This form of inner work is adapted from the heart-cultivation (Lojong) tradition of Tibetan Buddhism. This methods enhances our ability to engage difficult mental and emotional states to discover that fear, suffering, loss, anger, and grief—the very states we long to avoid—are actually key to developing deeper empathy, wisdom, and joy. We will learn "on-the-spot" meditations, explore how contemplative practice can be applied to caregiving, and discover the sacred middle, a healthy place of deep presence between detachment and merger.

This workshop is open to anyone interested in learning the skills of Natural Empathy. While many rely on this meditation as a form of spiritual growth, it is especially suitable for caregivers, therapists, social workers and heath-care professionals. Many individuals in these fields have reported that this practice reinvigorates their calling to provide effective and transformative care. Prior meditation experience is not required.

Suggested registration fee: $50.00. No one will be turned away for lack of funds. This is a benefit event to support the Carol Sipe Memorial Scholarship Fund, which assists students in attending Natural Dharma Fellowship residential meditation retreats. All proceeds from registration fees and additional voluntary donations will go directly to the the Carol Sipe Fund.

Space is limited. Advance registration is highly recommended.

Register: Gina Michaels, dharma@ginamichaels.com

Joel Baehr
www.joelbaehr.com

The only problem in your life is your mind’s resistance to life as it unfolds.” ~ Dan Millman