Attending a 10 day meditation retreat tomorrow, any tips?

[Nathan99]

I really hope to make the most out of this first experience, any tips on what i should bring or do before my retreat tomorrow? By the way it's in Shelburne falls, Mass.

[FredFred]

I've never done any retreats, but have heard about the benefits they can have.

These 10 days will change your life for the better, I'm sure of it

[Nathan99]

@FredFred Thanks, I hope it does.

[herghly]

I assume you are doing the 10 day VIpassana retreat

• Commit to NOT leaving, regardless of how you feel
• Become mentally prepared that it is not fun or relaxing
• When you have the choice to either meditate alone or in the hall, meditate in the hall

When i did my first 10 day vipassana retreat many people left and i think its because people go into it with the wrong intentions. 

[Salvijus]

When you have the choice to either meditate alone or in the hall, meditate in the hall

Do that.

[Rilles]

Its gonna be butterflies, butterflies with sharp teeth and machete swords cutting at you, i guess, ive never done it. 

[PsiloPutty]

Cool, I'm jealous! I did a 7-day Vip retreat earlier this year and got a lot out of it. The first 3 days were the hardest for me, but you get into a groove, even if it feels like you don't. Your mind will quiet down in ways you've likely never experienced consciously. And your back will hurt like a mo'fo. 

[MiracleMan]

3 hours ago, PsiloPutty said:

Cool, I'm jealous! I did a 7-day Vip retreat earlier this year and got a lot out of it. The first 3 days were the hardest for me, but you get into a groove, even if it feels like you don't. Your mind will quiet down in ways you've likely never experienced consciously. And your back will hurt like a mo'fo.

I've been invited to a 10 day in December but I've not yet accepted the offer.  I have a cushion with a back support, but I have chronic lower back pain and I'm unsure if I'll make it through.  I did tell them I had this condition, so maybe if I have to take a break and lie on my back for a few they won't kick me out.  Hopefully they'll understand.

[PsiloPutty]

@MiracleMan Some retreats have actual chairs available for older folks or people with prohibitive pain. By the 6th day, half the class was sitting in them, so don't feel bad.