*The students who diligently learned and practiced for eight days have all gained so much! Let’s hear their stories and share in their joy.
Joanna (82 years old): Three months of persistent meditation improved my vitality and relieved my shortness of breath**
Before joining Bodhi Meditation, I had been watching Grandmaster JinBodhi’s YouTube channel for many years. I resonated deeply with his teachings and enjoyed listening to his enlightening talks. I used to experience shortness of breath while walking. I attended my first 8-Day Health and Happiness Meditation Retreat in June and then I started practicing the Meditation of Greater Illumination (GI) daily. This month, I also started Energy Bagua walking meditation at the meditation center. At first, I could only walk for 5 minutes before needing to rest due to shortness of breath. However, within just a few days, I was able to complete the full hour of walking meditation. This time, my breathing improved even more—I no longer feel short of breath, even while cooking. Unlike last time, I didn’t feel tired after class. Now, I plan to extend my daily Greater Illumination practice from 30 minutes to 1 hour. Since I’ve experienced such great benefits, I introduced Bodhi Meditation to my friends and family. Every morning, they now join me at the center for meditation, and together, we completed and graduated from the 8-Day Health and Happiness Meditation Retreat!
Xiaolin: Brighter complexion, clear eyes, and restful sleep**
After attending the 8-Day Health and Happiness Meditation Retreat, my complexion brightened, my eyes became clearer, and I can now sleep through the night without waking.
Deling: Letting go of emotional baggage**
While chanting for my father, childhood memories of our time together surfaced. I am deeply grateful for my father, who held our large family together. I was the 8th child and my father worked tirelessly throughout his life. When he passed away from liver disease, I was only 14. I remember overhearing my father telling my mother, “I’m so glad we didn’t foster her.” While chanting, I felt as though I had healed my father and entrusted him to the Buddhas, which filled my heart with gratitude and healing.
Yuanjing: Grandmaster’s teachings helped me see my desires more clearly**
Through Grandmaster’s teachings, I realized that the things I’ve been pursuing are insignificant compared to spiritual growth. I should focus on improving my body, mind, and soul and strive for more meaningful goals. I once heard about a pastor who discovered through his research that people nearing death only want to see those who love them, and he believed that the meaning of life is love. Monetary gains pale in comparison to the spiritual achievements attainable through meditation and cultivation. I plan to continue practicing and to sow seeds of compassion and love through charitable deeds and spreading Dharma. Grandmaster is like the great sun, and we must become like little sparks.
The end of the 8-Day Health and Happiness Meditation Retreat signifies merely the start of our meditation journey. Guided by Grandmaster JinBodhi, we are on the path toward health and happiness together, supporting one another to ensure our steps are steady as we strive to go further.
