© Famke Veenstra
Rain Retreat Meditation Featured in
You can learn the ancient art of meditating at one of the many meditation centres in Myanmar that welcome overseas visitors. If you are planning a course of more than 28 days, you will need a special 90-day meditation visa. Most classes are in English. The main principles of meditation here all visitors must adhere to are: silence, staying on-site for the duration of the course, and eating only at certain times during the day. Men and women are separated during their stay. There is no charge for the courses, accommodation, or food. Donations are accepted at the end of your stay. Also, there are opportunities to ask questions and have private interviews with the teacher. The meditation teachers explain how to observe the eight precepts throughout the length of their stay. The observance of those moral Precepts leads to the development of Vipassana Insight knowledge. Take lessons during the 'Rain's Retreat' (Vassa) between July and October to have practice with the main teachers. But most of the meditation centres open throughout the year to receive those who are prepared to undertake full-time Vipassana meditation for six to twelve weeks.