{"id":14638,"date":"2025-11-25T16:06:23","date_gmt":"2025-11-25T21:06:23","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bffct.org\/bff\/?page_id=14638"},"modified":"2026-02-19T18:54:48","modified_gmt":"2026-02-19T23:54:48","slug":"day-of-mindfulness-online-at-home-retreat","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/bffct.org\/bff\/day-of-mindfulness-online-at-home-retreat\/","title":{"rendered":"Day of Mindfulness \u2013 Online At-Home Retreat &#8211; Autumn"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Date: Sunday, November 22, 2026<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Open Enrollment ends November 20, 2026<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Autumn invites us to gently let go, and rediscover what truly sustains us.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This Day of Mindfulness offers a warm and luminous refuge\u2014an opportunity to settle the heart, refresh the mind, and cultivate presence right in the middle of ordinary life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>The<\/strong> <strong>Day of Mindfulness is a one-day at-home practice retreat<\/strong> designed to help participants bring the heart of mindfulness into daily living. It is easy to feel centered at a temple or retreat center\u2014but sustaining that clarity at home, in the midst of everyday responsibilities, is the true art of practice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This retreat offers structure, guidance, and the shared presence of community, allowing participants to spend a full day in mindful awareness while remaining in their own homes. With teachers who together bring over six decades of contemplative experience, participants can feel confident that they are in caring, capable hands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A detailed\/structured schedule will be emailed in advance, and the group will gather only twice on Zoom:<br><strong>9:00 a.m. for orientation<\/strong> <strong>&amp; group meditation<\/strong><br><strong>6:00 p.m. for group meditation &amp; closing reflections<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"350\" src=\"https:\/\/bffct.org\/bff\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Mindfuless-1024x350.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-15155\" style=\"aspect-ratio:2.925694289330653;width:432px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bffct.org\/bff\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Mindfuless-1024x350.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/bffct.org\/bff\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Mindfuless-300x103.jpg 300w, https:\/\/bffct.org\/bff\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Mindfuless-768x262.jpg 768w, https:\/\/bffct.org\/bff\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Mindfuless-1536x525.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/bffct.org\/bff\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Mindfuless.jpg 1671w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Meditation &amp; Mindfulness: What\u2019s the Difference?<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>People often wonder about the relationship between the two:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Meditation<\/strong> is a formal practice\u2014sitting still, focusing the mind, training stability and awareness.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Mindfulness<\/strong> is the quality you bring to everything you do\u2014walking, eating, cooking, showering, resting.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>This retreat blends both in a natural, grounded, and deeply supportive way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>This Program Is Open to All<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>While informed by time-tested Buddhist mindfulness traditions, <strong>no devotional or religious practice is included<\/strong>. <strong>Meditation and mindfulness are universal human practices<\/strong>, available to anyone regardless of background or belief.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Who This Retreat Is For<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Those with <em>some<\/em> basic familiarity with sitting meditation, posture, breath awareness, and mindful walking<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Newer practitioners who want structure and teacher support<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Anyone seeking a full day of quiet, clarity, and mindful living at home<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><em><strong>Not recommended<\/strong> for complete beginners with no meditation exposure<\/em><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Benefits of Participating<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Learn how to sustain mindfulness at home, in real-life environments<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Strengthen emotional steadiness, inner calm, and present-moment awareness<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Build a gentle routine of sitting and walking meditation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Experience community support while practicing in silence<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Gain practical tips for integrating mindfulness into daily routines<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Retreat Schedule<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>A detailed retreat schedule will be emailed to all registered retreatants (yogis) about 5 before the retreat, so you\u2019ll have plenty of time to prepare your space and settle into the rhythm of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>9:00am \u2014 Opening Zoom Session<\/strong><br>Welcome, orientation, brief review of sitting &amp; walking meditation<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>9:30am \u2014 Morning Practice<\/strong><br>Group Sitting, and then individual Sittiing Walking, Mindful Daily Activitie<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>12:00pm \u2014 Mindful Lunch<\/strong><br><strong>Contemplative oryoki-style*<\/strong>: a simple meal eaten slowly in silence with awareness, gratitude, mindful cleanup &amp; mindful break.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>1:00pm \u2014 Early Afternoon Practice<\/strong><br>Sitting, Walking, Mindful Activities<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>3:00pm \u2014 Tea &amp; Mindful Break<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>3:30 pm \u2014 Late Afternoon Practice<\/strong><br>Sitting, Walking, Mindful Activities<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>5:00pm \u2014 Mindful Dinner<\/strong><br>Same contemplative oryoki-style as lunch<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>6:00pm \u2014 Closing Zoom Session<\/strong><br>Group Sitting, Sharing, Dharma reflections, Q&amp;A<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>6:30-45pm \u2014 End of Day<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\">* <strong>Contemplative Oryoki Overview<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>A simplified, at-home adaptation of the traditional oryoki meal practice. Participants eat mindfully, slowly, and with appreciation, following a short guide that emphasizes presence rather than ritual formality.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Retreat Essentials<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>Preparing a few simple items ahead of time will help you create a peaceful, retreat-like space and fully benefit from your at-home Day of Mindfulness.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignright size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"863\" height=\"789\" src=\"https:\/\/bffct.org\/bff\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Early-Spring-Day-of-Mindfulness-narrow.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-15151\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1.093852850621085;width:206px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bffct.org\/bff\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Early-Spring-Day-of-Mindfulness-narrow.jpg 863w, https:\/\/bffct.org\/bff\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Early-Spring-Day-of-Mindfulness-narrow-300x274.jpg 300w, https:\/\/bffct.org\/bff\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Early-Spring-Day-of-Mindfulness-narrow-768x702.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 863px) 100vw, 863px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>A meditation cushion (or a firm pillow)<\/strong><br>Choose something steady and supportive for comfortable sitting. A chair is also an excellent option if that suits your body better.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>A soft-chime timer or mindfulness bell<\/strong> or use cell phone clock\/timer<br>A gentle sound will mark practice periods without disrupting your calm.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>These are the only essentials you need. If you don\u2019t have them on hand, feel free to adapt with what you already own or pick up items from your preferred local or online shop.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Looking for trusted recommendations?<\/strong> Visit the <strong>BFF Online Store<\/strong> for a curated selection of cushions, timers, and other supportive items for your home practice: <a href=\"https:\/\/bffct.org\/bff\/practice-supplies-store\/#\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>CLICK HERE<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Contribution<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Contribution: $45<\/strong>. Your contribution helps support the Buddhist Faith Fellowship\u2019s programs, outreach, and overall mission of sharing mindfulness, compassion, and community with all who seek it.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignleft size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"646\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/bffct.org\/bff\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Dharma-Teacher-Teacher-in-Connecticut-646x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-14533\" style=\"width:122px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bffct.org\/bff\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Dharma-Teacher-Teacher-in-Connecticut-646x1024.jpg 646w, https:\/\/bffct.org\/bff\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Dharma-Teacher-Teacher-in-Connecticut-189x300.jpg 189w, https:\/\/bffct.org\/bff\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Dharma-Teacher-Teacher-in-Connecticut-768x1216.jpg 768w, https:\/\/bffct.org\/bff\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Dharma-Teacher-Teacher-in-Connecticut.jpg 774w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 646px) 100vw, 646px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Morning Teacher: Rev. G.R. Lewis, M.A.<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>Rev. G.R. Lewis, BFF of CT\u2019s guiding teacher, has been a Zen and Shin Buddhist practitioner for many decades. He is a long-time student of Venerable Thich Tri Hong and the esteemed and late Dr. (Rev.) Taitetsu Unno. With deep experience in meditation, mindfulness, and accessible instruction, he brings warmth, clarity, and grounded wisdom to his teaching.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignleft size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"506\" height=\"528\" src=\"https:\/\/bffct.org\/bff\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Image-Ikuse.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-10538\" style=\"width:208px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bffct.org\/bff\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Image-Ikuse.jpeg 506w, https:\/\/bffct.org\/bff\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Image-Ikuse-288x300.jpeg 288w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 506px) 100vw, 506px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Evening Teacher: Melissa Lewis, B.A.<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>Melissa Lewis is a Dharma Teacher at the Buddhist Faith Fellowship of CT and a long-time practitioner of mindfulness meditation, engaged Buddhism, and the contemplative arts. Known for her calm presence and practical approach, she supports students in bringing mindfulness into the realities of everyday life. Melissa specializes in gentle, trauma-sensitive guidance rooted in compassion and clarity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Full intructor bios available <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/bffct.org\/bff\/our-teachers-officers\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>HERE<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Be sure to read<\/strong>&nbsp;on the ticket the&nbsp;<em>Refund Policy<\/em>&nbsp;<em>Disclaimer of Responsibility, Code of Conduct,&nbsp;<\/em>&amp;&nbsp;<em>Image Release Agreement<\/em>. By registering to this event, you have confirmed and agreed to these policies, agreements, code of conduct.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-16018d1d wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<script src='https:\/\/donorbox.org\/widgets.js?language=en-us' type='module' async='async' defer='defer'><\/script><dbox-widget id='embed-widget' type='event' campaign='853466'><\/dbox-widget>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Date: Sunday, November 22, 2026 Open Enrollment ends November 20, 2026 Autumn invites us to gently let go, and rediscover what truly sustains us. This Day of Mindfulness offers a warm and luminous refuge\u2014an opportunity to settle the heart, refresh the mind, and cultivate presence right in the middle of ordinary life. The Day of&hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":15148,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_exactmetrics_skip_tracking":false,"_exactmetrics_sitenote_active":false,"_exactmetrics_sitenote_note":"","_exactmetrics_sitenote_category":0,"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-14638","page","type-page","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","ctfw-has-image"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/bffct.org\/bff\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/14638","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/bffct.org\/bff\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/bffct.org\/bff\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bffct.org\/bff\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bffct.org\/bff\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=14638"}],"version-history":[{"count":32,"href":"https:\/\/bffct.org\/bff\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/14638\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":15250,"href":"https:\/\/bffct.org\/bff\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/14638\/revisions\/15250"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bffct.org\/bff\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/15148"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/bffct.org\/bff\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=14638"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}