The rain was pounding down outside. Among the quiet participants, it was difficult to make out the audio instructions against the hammering on the ground outside of what had now escalated to hail. Eventually, the storm subsided and the following magnificent bursts of purple lightning were the indication that the silence had begun.

Trapped inside my own mind for ten days, I had a full range of experiences, from physical pain that reaches close to some of the most severe I have endured, to bursts of raw emotion unattached to anything of the physical world. I experienced an ecstasy of unconditional selfless love as well as complete breakdowns where my mind had fully given up all defenses. I was so deep into meditation that I had forgotten about anything but the present moment; I was so lost in thought that I couldn’t be aware of anything in the present moment. I practiced catch and release on multiple mosquitos and I watched a fly wash itself for at least five minutes.

I cannot possibly attempt to summarize or explain the undertaking of attending a 10-day vipassana mediation course, nor do I want to, but I can say that it is one of the most monumental and life-changing experiences of my life. It may not be for everyone, and it may not be the right time for you, but if you are looking for a means of becoming happier, becoming a better person for society, developing self control, cutting an addiction or otherwise living a healthier lifestyle, this is an incredible step to make.

If you are seriously interested in knowing more please please please get in touch. You can email me at tylergan29@gmail.com

There are vipassana centers all over the world. More information and center locations may be found here.