On this retreat we will enjoy the beauty of the Smoky Mountains while we solidify our understanding of what meditation is, how it works and define key meditation tools and their purpose. In addition we will look at how to use meditation to strengthen our personal practice, while supporting students in group classes, trainings and private lessons. This course is a combination of lecture, practice & discussion. We will acknowledge the trends in neuroscience as it pertains to meditation, mindfulness and the engagement of the parasympathetic nervous system - now becoming one of the most widely-recognized self-care practices and therapies for chronic stress and overall wellness in our modern world.

We will explore:

• Gaining a firm foundation in the traditional teachings of meditation

• Developing a personal meditation practice

• Using meditation tools to support students in both group classes & private settings

• Practicing awareness in the body, engagement of the parasympathetic nervous system, and other mindfulness practices to bring the mind, body & spirit into balance

• Scientific research and modern techniques in the practice of neuroscience and the mind-body connection.