On November 18th, 2023, from 2 to 4 PM, the Chan Hall of Dharma Drum Vancouver Centre in Richmond welcomed a gathering of meditation practitioners for a transformative session led by Venerable Chang Wu. This event served as a profound finale to a series of explorative Chan meditation sessions throughout the year, attracting over 20 participants eager to deepen their connection with Chan meditation practices.
Venerable Changwu commenced the session with a succinct yet impactful introduction, emphasizing relaxation, body awareness, and cultivating clarity as fundamental pillars of effective meditation. This set the tone for an interactive session, commencing with a guided 8-form moving meditation that immersed everyone in a deeply engrossing experience, fostering a profound connection with the present moment.
A volunteer aptly demonstrated various sitting postures, allowing attendees to optimize their comfort and alignment during the subsequent 30-minute sitting meditation, symbolizing the collective journey towards self-care and mindfulness.
Following the silent introspection, the group transitioned into communal sharing and discussion. Dividing into two groups due to the substantial turnout, Venerable Chang Wu led one discussion, while seasoned meditation workshop instructor Tom Kaczmarski guided the other. Engrossed in dialogue and Q&A sessions, participants extended discussions beyond the anticipated timeline, sharing profound insights and personal revelations.
Cecilia, one of the attendees, shared after the event, “This experience is good and I would like to bring my friends here with me next time as well.” Her feedback echoed those of many others, highlighting the event’s profound impact and potential to inspire mindfulness journeys.
Despite the extended duration due to enthusiastic engagement, the event concluded harmoniously around 5 PM. Participants left with a renewed sense of serenity and mindfulness, carrying the lessons and experiences gained from the immersive meditation session—a fitting conclusion to a year of self-care and inner growth.
Reflecting on the event, attendees expressed gratitude for the profound insights shared by Venerable Chang Wu and Tom, emphasizing the significance of community, shared learning, and the transformative power of meditation.
The DDYP Chan meditation event on November 18th at Dharma Drum Vancouver Centre in Richmond stood as a testament to the profound impact of mindfulness practices and the unifying force of shared exploration, marking a poignant finale to the series while serving as an inspiration for continued growth and self-care in the future.
Written/Photo: DDYP 2023.11.25