Unwind and Discover: Focus on Mindfulness and Inquiry Retreat with Kristina Baré
A Two-Day, Non-Residential, In-Person Only Retreat
Description:
Join us for a transformative Insight Meditation Weekend Retreat where we will dive into the practices of mindfulness (sati) and inquiry (dhamma-vicaya).
In the midst of a time filled with uncertainty and distress, mindfulness and inquiry can be powerful tools for finding greater balance. By deepening our awareness of our present moment experience and inquiring into the roots of our suffering, we can begin to transform the way we relate to ourselves and to the world.
This retreat will provide a space for both sitting and walking meditation, supported by Dhamma talks and opportunities for questions and responses. Whether you are new to meditation or have been practicing for years, this weekend is open to all levels of experience.
When
Saturday, May 10, 2025 from 9:00 AM PDT to 4:00 PM PDT
- AND -
Sunday, May 11, 2025 from 9:00 AM PDT to 4:00 PM PDT
Where
Goward House
2495 Arbutus Road
Victoria, BC V8N 1V9
Please use the rear entrance to the building (around to the left and down the sidewalk or stairs).
The #11 bus stops nearby.
Kristina is also running a series for three Sunday evenings prior to the retreat.
Awakening the Heart: A Three Week Journey into the Four Brahmaviharas
April 20, 27 and May 4, 7:00-8:30pm
Helga Beer Yoga Center: #202 - 1600 Bay Street, Victoria, BC
Join us for a three week dive into the Buddhist teachings of the Four Brahmaviharas—Loving-kindness (Metta), Compassion (Karuna), Sympathetic Joy (Mudita), and Equanimity (Upekkha). These powerful qualities of the heart provide a foundation for cultivating peace and clarity within ourselves and in our interactions with the world.
Through guided meditation, dharma talks, and group discussion, participants will explore how these practices can serve as antidotes to the suffering, division, and anxiety prevalent in the times we live in. Each session builds progressively, helping to foster greater emotional resilience and connection.
About the Teacher:
Kristina was first introduced to buddhist meditation as a young child by a close family member. She came to the Theravada Buddhist tradition in 2009 and has practiced primarily in the Ven. Mahasi Sayadaw tradition as well as in the absorption practices taught by Ven. Pa Auk Sayadaw. Her practice has included extended periods of silent retreat which continues to be an important part of her journey.
Invited to train as an insight meditation teacher in 2020, Kristina completed a four year dhamma teacher training process under the guidance of Marcia Rose, Guy Armstrong and Sally Armstrong in 2024. This in-depth training allows her to teach residential retreats at various insight meditation centers in North America.
Cost:
Because the Buddha's teachings are considered to be priceless, and in keeping with the teachings and spirit of generosity or dana, this retreat is freely offered. Donations are welcomed.
Teacher Dana: At Goward House, a dana basket will be set out for cash or cheque donations to the teacher. Please make out the cheque to Kristina Baré. Thank you.
Canadian participants can make a donation through Interac e-transfer to: kristinabare8@gmail.com
A PayPal option is also available on the teacher's website.
VIMS Dana: For those attending in-person, a dana basket will be set out for cash or cheque donations to Victoria IMS.
If preferred, clients of Canadian banks can make donations for organizational costs incurred by Victoria IMS through Interac e-Transfer to vimsdana@gmail.com and anyone can donate with PayPal by clicking here. Cheques can be mailed to 4013 Magdelin St. Victoria, BC V8N 3M5.
The suggested donation for organizational costs for this two-day event is $50.
No one will be turned away for lack of funds.
Contact:
Victoria IMS Retreats
Victoria Insight Meditation Society
vims1retreat@gmail.com