Mindfulness is the observation power of the mind, which makes it possible to experience an object simply and clearly, without reacting to it.
Sayadaw U Pandita (Myanmar, 1921 – 2016)
That doesn’t mean we become passive! We begin to see that our thinking and our emotions are mostly automatic patterns. If we can stop them, very beautiful, beneficial forces are released, for the benefit of ourselves and the world around us.
Silence
In a Vipassana retreat, there is not only the silence of not speaking. Silence is also promoted by quieting the senses. We spend days in a place where there are few sounds. Also when we go outside, we control our eyes. Eating we limit to twice a day. Thoughts and emotions become quieter through our observation power.
Vipassana
In a Vipassana retreat following the Mahasi method, mindfulness, observation power, is developed within a framework of five faculties: faith, effort, mindfulness, concentration and (intuitive) wisdom.
Of these five faculties, faith and effort are the most important. When these are there, mindfulness will come as a result, concentration will come as a result, wisdom will come as a result.
If we act in this way proactively, we develop HAPPINESS that does not depend on seeing, hearing, feeling, smelling or tasting. This happiness never bores and does not age.
There is no WAY TO this happiness.
The way the Buddha points is good and lovely in the beginning, in the progression, and in the end.
A practical introduction to the Mahasi method can be found in the Basic Instructions and Supplemental Instructions.
Other English spoken retreats
See Retreat Centra.
15-day retreat (English spoken) 2026
Friday, May 15, 3:30 p.m. to Saturday, May 30, 2 p.m. (15 days)
Guidance: Sayadaw U Vivekananda and Sayalay Daw Bhaddamanika.
Topic: Abodes of the Noble Ones
Description: This retreat offers an in-depth exploration of the sutta on The Abodes of the Noble Ones (AN 10:19 & 20, pp. 1359-61), combined with the foundational practices of Satipaṭṭhāna meditation.
Participants will learn how to cultivate mindfulness and insight, enabling them to live in a safe, secure, and protected manner. This retreat is designed to accommodate both beginners and experienced practitioners, providing a supportive environment for all.
Cooks: team Center Savita.
Location: Centrum Savita, In der Burbecke 15, 59955 Winterberg-Niedersfeld, Germany
Cost
Lodging: on single room with private toilet and shower € 1.375 (VAT included).
Supervision: supervising this retreat is a donation from the teachers.
Your donation: Giving (generosity, dana) is a basic part of your meditation practice. After the retreat, participants can make a donation – according to their own wishes and abilities – to the Mahasi Sayadaw Foundation. With outside teachers, your gift is passed to them.