Retreating with Gurdjieff

I just returned from a retreat with William Patrick Patterson at a beautiful Jesuit retreat facility in Morristown, New Jersery. Right before I left for the retreat I received Leland Vall's Alekander Tip (see my previous post for how to sign up for these) which included the picture below of the diaphragm. It was very helpful to have this image in my head since the diaphragm was the focus of many of the breathing and meditation exercises. Until seeing these pictures I had not realized how large the diaphragm becomes with the exhalation.

The retreat was a harmonious blend of the physical, emotional and intellectual. For the intellectual part, Mr. Patterson provided many insights to the From the Author section at the end of Gurdjieff's All and Everything. My physical and emotional centers were fed by wonderful walks in the wooded area surrounding the retreat house. The physical center also enjoyed the wonderful meals. The first night was glazed salmon with chocolate-dipped strawberries for dessert!

Mr. Patterson's next retreat is going to be in California in September. I highly recommend it - although no guarantees on the food. You can get the details here. Hope to see you there.