The Shamatha Project, launched in Spring of 2007, brings together a diverse group of scientists and laypersons (like Alma attached to brain sensors) to study and measure the long-term effects of practicing shamatha, or meditative quiescence [serenity]. Although the training at Shambhala Mountain Center lasted three months, nearly one in five of the participants (12 out of 60) elected to continue full-time practice. So moved were they by their experiences that they immediately sought out the support that could sustain them in the long-term pursuit of shamatha.
This unexpected response required quick action, and temporary accommodations were found for all of the continuing shamatha yogis. Now more permanent accommodations and funding are required to sustain dedicated meditators from the Shamatha Project and from the 8-week shamatha retreats that Dr. B. Alan Wallace (pictured) is leading at the Phuket Int'l Academy Mind Centre in Thailand. Fortunately, their needs are as modest as their goals are great. They have much work ahead, and it is our hope and intention to support them all the way. More>>
