After six days of silence, I've come to the realization that the kind of extended silent meditation retreats I used to think were essential for my annual reset are simply not what I need anymore.

While Goenka's masochistic, dogmatic approach works for some—even when modified to allow for walking and moving meditation—I have come to find it unnecessarily rigid.

The truth is, meditative awareness isn't confined to a strict schedule or silent halls. It's available in every moment—whether sitting, speaking, eating, working, walking, or playing.

As Buddha taught in the raft parable:

"My teaching is like a raft used to cross the river. Only a fool would carry the raft around after he had already reached the other shore of liberation."

Even the teachings themselves—the methods, the practices, the techniques—eventually become a burden if we continue to carry them after they've served their purpose.

I'm continuing with my moving and sitting meditation practices for the remaining 34 days of this annual reset, but I've expanded my awareness to fully embrace the inclusion of mindfulness in writing, reading, and speaking. Each moment offers an opportunity for presence and awareness.

It feels good to be back—refreshed, recharged, and aligned with purpose.

How is everyone this evening?

#IKITAO