Mediation is not what I do. It is apart of who I am. This article is the continuation of my 10-day Meditation Course Part 1. From struggles and pain to peace, calmness and wisdom.
The pain starts
On the second day, I awoke at 4 AM to the sound of the bell in our accommodation, experiencing significant physical discomfort. The previous day, I had engaged in meditation from 4:30 AM until 9 PM, with intermittent breaks; however, the total time spent sitting or kneeling amounted to approximately 12 hours. Anticipating the need for relief based on prior experience, I decided to use Paracetamol and anti-inflammatory medication.
On Day 3, returning students like myself were instructed to observe any sensations on the upper lip just below the nostrils, where air passes in and out. New students were instructed to continue to focus on the breath only.
Meditation enhances sensors
During my walks to the dining room, I noticed the colourful blooming plants more vividly by day four. The headteacher explained this heightened awareness was due to our increased focus, allowing us to experience our surroundings more deeply.
On day 4, everyone began practicing Vipassana by focusing on sensations around the nose, nostrils, and upper lip for 24 hours. On day 5, we scanned each body part for sensations, observing each area for one minute if none were felt before moving on; a full scan took about 15 minutes.
The Hour of Power
Day 5 came with another instruction. Meditators were not allowed to move their body an inch during the 3 x 1-hour group meditation sessions daily This was to build strong determination and to build equanimity by not reacting to the pain, one felt because of not being able to move the body. Luckily for me, I’ve had already been practicing my meditations at home without movement for extended periods of time, so I had a little bit of an advantage over other, not so fortunate students. But in saying that I too suffered during these sessions. I renamed these Group meditation sessions to “the hour of power.”
After the first “Hour of Power” on day 5, all the male students exited to the grass outside the meditation hall, collapsing with distressed expressions on their faces. The female students were likely doing the same on the other side of the hall. I wanted to acknowledge the male students for their perseverance and commitment in completing the group meditation. However, due to limitations in communication and interaction, I was unable to express my appreciation directly.
When the “Hour of Power” arrived, I considered offering supportive words to help the group persevere. However, I ultimately did not speak.
Commitment to the meditation process
Sometimes my meditations were effective, while at other times nothing worked. This fluctuation occurred throughout the course. The head teacher explained that craving good experiences often leads to less satisfying sessions; we were taught to stay equanimous without reacting to pain or pleasure, which I found challenging.
An everyday occurrence
A memorable moment from the course was when two students tried to use the same door simultaneously but, unable to communicate or look at each other, stood awkwardly until one finally walked through—sometimes after quite a delay.
Days 6 to 8 felt monotonous. I perfected the technique and practiced effectively, experiencing subtle pleasant sensations, but my enthusiasm plateaued despite slight variations in practice. By Day 8, I felt I had accomplished everything in the course and was ready to leave. I considered how to ask the manager for my things.
The body wins
There were an increasing number of mats left empty during the meditation course as some students chose to leave before it concluded. I do not blame them. It is tough.
A new height in awareness
There was a noticeable increase in the intensity of the sensations I experienced during meditations on Day 9. It felt as though the entire body was vibrating at a specific frequency. Each meditation session was accompanied by strong physical sensations. The experience was consistent throughout the period and persisted with each session.
The end of noble silence
Day 10. After the morning meditation, Noble Silence ended and we could talk again. The teacher wanted to ease our transition back to normal life and give us a chance to discuss our experiences. Many conversations followed about each person’s meditation journey, challenges, and positive moments.
My reflections on the final day mirrored those of day 9. On day 10, we meditated for seven hours—less than usual—to ease our return to daily life and allow for socializing. On day 11 at 4:30 AM, we received final instructions, meditated as a group, cleaned assigned areas, and finished all tasks, including breakfast, by 9 AM.
Final instructions
The headteacher instructed us to keep practising daily, meditating for an hour each morning and evening. After five days at home, I’ve managed mornings but struggle with evenings—work leaves me too tired, and I often fall asleep. However, I still experience pleasant sensations during meditation.
There are several ways to continue your practice: attend day or three-day courses or serve at a ten-day course by helping in the kitchen and supporting participants. Servers also meditate for around six hours daily alongside their duties.
No fees for the meditation course
A 10-day Noble Silence meditation course is free; donations are optional at the end of the course to support future participants, with no required amount. You give what you can or wish.
The final word
This 10-day meditation course can be very challenging and requires significant commitment. Participants will encounter gross discomfort and will need great persistence to continue, even if progress seems slow. However, by completing the course and following the instructions closely, participants gain valuable experiences and insights which they can take into their every day lives.
You may also like to read: The Power of Meditation or Detachment
Reach out now
Organise a free up to a 15 minute phone call to see if this service is right for you: 0405 391 110
Or fill out the contact form: https://apspear.com.au/contact/
Want to know what to expect from my services: Mind Management & Counselling Services
Check out my social pages:
https://www.facebook.com/MMEI01 or https://www.linkedin.com/in/adrian-p-spear/
