Do you know that science has shown that our brain is not designed to multi-task? This so-called “multi-tasking,” is asking our brain to work harder and consistently switch from one task to another, increasing the error rate for all tasks at hand. Needless to say, multi-tasking has become a norm in our society. We always try to do a good job of fitting as many tasks as possible into every single minute of our schedule. As a result, we often feel overwhelmed and exhausted at the end of the day because we are so good at maximizing the capacity of our brain.
My first encounter of Chan Practice was several years ago during a series of beginner Chan Practice Group, offered by Dharma Drum Vancouver Centre (DDVC). Although my practice of Chan has not been consistent throughout the years, I have always been attracted to the idea of a multi-day Chan Retreat.
I first learned about Rebecca’s 4-day retreat through friends from DDVC Some of them had attended Rebecca’s lectures in the past and spoke highly about her ways of teaching. It didn’t take me long to jump on this opportunity. I see this not only as a way to gain a deeper understanding of Chan practice and Dharma, but it also allows me to declutter my mind and gain clarity. Most importantly, it offers a controlled environment, where we do not need to worry about or fulfill our obligations in various aspects such as work and personal life, allowing us to observe and discover our inner-selves.
As a beginner to Chan Practice, this was my first time participating in a multi-day Chan Retreat. It was a refreshing experience. During the 4-day retreat, we not only learned the method of Chan Practice, as Rebecca also tied the Chan Practice to the Four Noble Truths and the Noble Eightfold Path, helping us understand the purpose of the practice. The general perception of Chan Practice is that it may be limited to undertaking sitting meditation. Contrary to this perception, we practiced Chan in various forms and settings such as sitting, walking, and eating meditation. In fact, Chan practice can take place anywhere and anytime.
What I enjoyed the most during the retreat was the one-on-one interview. This is an opportunity for those who would like to speak privately with Rebecca to ask any questions they may have without the fear of being judged in a group setting. During the interview, I was able to clarify several questions and gain deeper understandings of various tools and methods to support my journey of Chan Practice.
From this 4-day retreat, I not only acquired the tools needed for Chan Practice, I also gained confidence in daily Chan Practice. Chan Practice has helped me gain clarity and refrain from multi-tasking, ultimately allowing me to collect and calm the scattered mind. I look forward to incorporating Chan Practice into my daily routine and continuing my journey of Chan Practice with the support of various instructors from Dharma Drum Vancouver Centre.
Written by Christine Tseng 2023.08.13
Photo: Vancouver Chan Meditation Centre