Unveiling My Vipassana Journey: Dhamma Setu, Thirumudivakkam (Part 1)

Have you ever craved a deeper understanding of yourself and a path to inner peace? Intrigued by the ancient practice of Vipassana meditation, I recently embarked on a transformative 10-day course at Dhamma Setu, located near Pallavaram in Chennai. Today, I want to share my experience with you, offering a glimpse into the venue, daily schedule, and the profound impact this course has had on my life.

Finding Tranquillity at Dhamma Setu:

Dhamma Setu provided a serene environment conducive to self-discovery. Situated near the Outer Ring Road, it offered individual rooms with attached bathrooms, each equipped with a fan and light. While bedsheets and pillow covers weren’t provided, you could either bring your own or request them from the management.

A Journey Through the Schedule:

The 10-day course followed a rigorous yet empowering routine. The day began at 4:00 AM with a wake-up call, followed by meditation sessions from 4:30 AM to 6:30 AM. After a nourishing breakfast and a short break, we delved back into meditation from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM, with short breaks interspersed throughout. Lunch break lasted from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, followed by another meditation session from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM. A short break preceded another meditation session from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Evenings offered an insightful discourse by Goenka from 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM, followed by a final meditation session from 8:30 PM to 9:00 PM. The day concluded with a question-and-answer session with the teacher, allowing participants to clarify any doubts.

One unique aspect of the course was the concept of “group sitting.” During these sessions, all meditators, including the teacher and assistants (Sevagars), practised meditation together. Maintaining complete stillness and remaining seated throughout the session was mandatory.

Nourishment for Body and Mind:

The meals served at Dhamma Setu were designed to be both nutritious and balanced. Breakfast and lunch were buffet-style, with a focus on simplicity and healthy ingredients. We were responsible for cleaning our own utensils, fostering a sense of self-reliance. Dinner was not served, as the lighter meals were considered more conducive to meditation. The subtle flavours encouraged mindful eating, allowing us to focus on the act of nourishment itself.

Delving into the Meditation Techniques:

The first three days focused on Anapana meditation, a practice that involves focusing awareness on the breath at the nostrils. Over time, the focus gradually shifts downwards to the entrance of the nostrils. This technique aims to quieten the mind and reduce the speed of our thoughts.

The next seven days introduced Vipassana meditation itself. Here, leveraging the focus gained through Anapana, we learned to observe bodily sensations with equanimity. We systematically scanned our bodies from head to toe, encountering a wide range of sensations. The key was to observe these sensations without judgment or attachment, neither seeking pleasure nor avoiding discomfort. This practice helped us develop the ability to respond to life’s experiences with greater calmness and acceptance.

Stay tuned for Part 2, where I’ll delve deeper into the emotional and introspective aspects of my Vipassana experience, and explore the valuable lessons I learned about managing emotions, coping with challenges, and cultivating inner peace.