Spiritual Practices

*This series can be combined into a day-long program, or into another configuration based on needs and interests

​

   We often attach ourselves—and our ability to be happy and free—on a desired outcome, only to find ourselves disappointed or stuck when that outcome doesn't happen. This can lead to feelings such as anxiety, fear, anger, jealousy, hopelessness, sadness, or failure. Detachment from a particular outcome leads to freedom and joy regardless of how things turn out. 

   The practice of detachment being employed as a spiritual tool long precedes its popularity in the contemporary culture in which we find ourselves today. And, while ancient in its existence, the wisdom of its integration into our life journeys is timelessly appropriate. In modern parlance, it is often perceived as a state of mind in which a person overcomes his/her attachment to desire for the other (things, people, or concepts). Yet, when practiced on a spiritual level, attainment of a heightened perspective can be experienced alongside a richer, and perhaps more meaningful, liberation of one’s soul.

Join us for this four-part series as we unpack exactly what living spiritually with detachment can look like and how its incorporation as a nourishing practice can benefit you as a spiritual sojourner. During each hour-and-a-half session, we will consider a different body of teaching on detachment as it is embedded within a particular spiritual, religious, or philosophical perspective. Various media and techniques will be utilized to illustrate each perspective’s core beliefs and practices. Then, to become anchored and more deeply integrate each distinct teaching, participants will have time to discuss the information highlighted and experiment with its application during the remainder of the session through guided and creative exercises.

   Please bring along an open mind and heart and a journal for use during the program.

 

Week 1 – Buddhist Dharma                                                       

“Letting go gives us freedom, and freedom is the only condition for happiness. If, in our heart, we still cling to anything – anger, anxiety, or possessions – we cannot be free.” (Thich Nhat Hanh)

​

Week 2 – Hindu Teachings

 “Your heart must become a sea of love. Your mind must become a river of detachment.” (Sri Chinmoy)

​

Week 3 – Philosophy of Stoicism

 "Today I escaped anxiety. Or no, I discarded it, because it was within me, in my own perceptions — not outside."  (Marcus Aurelius)

​

Week 4 – Christian Precepts      

“Ignatian indifference (for our purposes, detachment) is the capacity to let go of what doesn’t help me to love God or love others—while staying engaged with what does.” (ignatianspirituality.com)