Darkness

It has been estimated that 90 to 95% of the sensory input that constantly bombards us comes through the eyes.  When we close the eyes to the visual sensory input, a different connection to our inner essence is possible.  It is possible to step outside of the definitions of who you think you are and to connect with a deeper part of your Self.

 In the absence of light, the brain chemistry changes and our system can unwind to its original state of innocence.  In the unwinding process one can face and move through deep fears and move into a connection with your inner Divinity.

 “Our usual perception of the world in waking consciousness is, in fact, a state of waking ignorance.  The brain must inhibit our true nature and divine connections to survive in the physical world.  In everyday life, we see everything back to front, as it were.  We perceive the primary actions of the brain as providing us with sensibility and cognitive awareness.  In fact, the brain’s mechanism is to filter and shut off the flow of divine consciousness, making possible survival on Earth, but obscuring all transcendental realities.  Darkness meditations remove the obscurations.  The inhibitory functions of the brain are lifted, and we revel in the experience of Oneness, Wu Chi, the Original Source.”   - Mantak Chia

 In a Darkness retreat, “spirit molecules” activated in the brain can alter the receiving qualities of the brain.  Allowing the brain “tunes in” to invisible worlds and parallel universes, like a television turning in to different channels.  Mystical and near-death, out-of-body experiences can reveal our essential energy.

 There are papers in the "Resources" tab that give additional perspectives on the Darkness experience.  The paper by Osho gives a deep spiritual perspective on darkness work. Reggie Ray, a teacher of Tibetan Tantric Buddhism, talks about how the darkness experience is the quintessential meditation practice.  A way of clearing our samsaras and opening to freedom and joy.

 Martin Lowenthal’s paper contains excerpts from his book on darkness retreats: Dawning of Clear Light.  It comes out of the Tibetan Buddhist approach to using darkness retreats as a technique for personal healing and connecting with and stabilizing our connection with the Clear Light, our essence. 

 Andrew Durham's paper is perhaps most practical and it incorporates the Natural Hygienic approach to dark room work.  He discusses how to prepare, what to expect, a good attitude to have going in, the practicalities of exercise, food and toilet.  He also discusses working with trauma and other issues that may arise. 

 If you have never done a darkness retreat before, a 4-day retreat is a good starting point.  It can give you an experience a profound rest and get a taste of what additional work with the darkness might offer.

NOTE:
Currently, we are temporarily not hosting the darkness retreats.  We are not certain when we will be able start them again, but it looks like it will likely be not until 2023.  We are planning on constructing a building dedicated for darkness work.  You can send your name and email and we will add you to the “interested” list and let you know when we start offering them again.