Meditation in Southeast Asia - Insight Meditation Center

Focus: Intensive meditation practice.
Abbot and meditation teacher: Sayadaw U Eindaw Batha is an excellent teacher
and expert for concentration meditation (Samatha) and jhana (absorption).
Language(s): Interviews are translated into Burmese and there is an English
brochure with meditation guidelines.
Meditation technique, duration of courses and dates: Meditation practice usually
takes place in the dhamma hall. Since instructions are individual, no particular date
must be adhered to. In the Pa-Auk Sayadaw tradition all 40 traditional objects of
meditation (Anapanasati, analysis of elements, 32 body parts, the 10 kasinas ...) are
taught. Most practitioners begin with Anapanasati, but depending on personal
preference and talent you can begin with a different technique. Sitting periods are
usually 90 minutes. If you have problems sitting for long periods of time you can
switch to practicing standing up. Sayadaw U Eindaw Batha takes care that beginners
do not overdo it. After intensive concentration meditation insight meditation
(Vipassana) is practiced. If you want to go deeper, you should have several months
and practice in the main monastery near Mawlamyine. The center in Thanlyin is very
suited to get a first impression and for shorter stays. If you want to stay longer, you
will be sent to the main center Mawlamyine, because conditions there are even better
(however, malaria is endemic there).
Lodging: Usually in double rooms. Showers, toilets, and laundry facilities in small
buildings near the quarters. Men and women live in separate areas. A light sleeping
bag is especially useful during the cooler season.
Shopping facilities: Items of daily use are available at the market. Flashlight, flipflops,
water bottle, insect repellant, toiletries, and possibly a thermos (as well as tea
and coffee) you buy best in Rangoon. From home, bring sitting pillow, vitamin and
mineral tablets as well as water disinfectant.
Food: Breakfast (5:30 a.m.) and lunch (10:30 a.m.) are good. There are always two
to three vegetarian dishes and very rarely fruit. From noon, no meals should be
taken. Potable water is available, but disinfectant should be brought for emergencies.
For longer stays, bring vitamin and mineral tablets. They are also a good gift for the
monks.
Rules: Participants committ themselves to the eight silas (moral precepts) and
should endeavor to develop loving kindness towards all living beings. Clothing should
be decent and comfortable (no shorts or tank tops). Traditionally, white blouses and
shirts are recommended. Men and women wear a longyi (sarong or wrap-around
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