Breathe in one nostril and snot out the other nostril. I thought it very unsanitary for 20 people snotting out their nose at once.

I like the precepts of Buddhism. But religious practices are generally over the top for me.

And you are a Buddhist. Calm abiding in pure joy. Is absolutely as fun as it sounds!

Or not, lol (I know I'm contradicting myself) the Buddha said "come see for yourself"

Meditation is scientifically proven to change our brains. It has made my life a good 80% better. Thats all been DIY. I feel a retreat would have a amazing impact.

I have two very dear “old” Buddha followers.

I just can’t do their rituals.

No rituals or beliefs required. You don't even have to sit in an uncomfortable posture. Heck you can do it walking.

I'd love to find 10 days for a real retreat! Lol I'm trying to just have a strong daily practice of 2 hrs or more..takes that for me to enter a jhana and bask in the bliss of breathing air.

Just started to listen to Culadasa, others I have learned from hold him in high regard.

https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLDzDWOT7Ce1UUC5L5_-A2Cf4ueM9bYDQr&si=1kvDIoTZ-pbbF1Q-

I count the blades of grass on the hill. When I lose the count, I start over. Herding the Ox.

Leigh Brasington teaches to count the breath, in - out 1 in - out 2 only count to 8 start over, mind wonders when you come back start at 1.

In TWIM (tranquil wisdom Insight Meditation) they teach the 6 Rs

When you get distracted

Recognize
Release
Relax
Re-smile
Return to peace
Repeat

I do both.

I'm amazed at how much I love AIR! lol

Counting the blades of grass is what my daughters tells people I'm doing when they see me 'just' standing, sitting or walking in the vineyard or orchard. I do both.

I left the primary forums today, looking for something in the less traveled forums, that would resonate with me on a deeper level. I found it, thanks for sharing.

reading this thread and those words I felt as though I'd finally returned home. Thank you for that. Gonna go breathe and count for a while.

p.s. in the spirit of sharing, unloosing tightness and focus in the eyes is something I now do. The fixated mind is an attached mind.