Rev. Heidi Alfrey. Courtesy photo.
VENTURA — Would you like to have a new year that really feels new? Often, instead of experiencing a new year, we are dragging around behaviors and habits that are from our past. Here is a way to live a truly new year.
Unity of Ventura is holding a “New Year’s Meditation Retreat” Saturday, January 7 from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Poinsettia Pavilion (3451 Foothill Road, Ventura). The day will incorporate “silent” meditation, Vipassana training and guidance so participants can focus on how to obtain the changes they want in their life as they start the new year. All faiths are welcome. The retreat will emphasize:
- Gaining a new perspective on stressful situations
- Building skills to manage your stress
- Increasing self-awareness
- Focusing on the present, not on the past
- Reducing negative emotions
- Increasing imagination and creativity
- Increasing patience and tolerance
“On January 7, you will get to a better relationship with yourself, your mind and your environment. You will gain tools to connect with your breath and quickly be able to find relaxation and peace,” says Rev. Heidi Alfrey, Unity’s senior minister who will be leading the retreat. “You will be able to notice when anxiety or agitation presents itself and have the insight to ‘let it go’ so you are kinder to yourself and others and gain the ability to act, not react. With that, comes the confidence to make the changes in your life that you desire.”
Vipassana means “to see things as they really are.” It is one of India’s most ancient meditation techniques. A non-sectarian practice, Vipassana is considered a journey of self-discovery with an opportunity to experience the truths of ancient teachings. The goal is to purify the mind develop values such as compassion and calmness and to increase empathy.
The day will consist of sitting, walking and lunch–all in silence. Chairs will be provided. Bring your lunch and a cushion (or whatever is used when meditating) if you wish to sit on the floor. The retreat is $35 per person ($25 by December 25). To register, go to https://www.unityofventura.org. For more information, contact Rev. Heidi Alfrey at revheidialfrey@gmail.com, 808-280-2510.