As I write this, just days after emerging from my third 10-day Vipassana meditation course, I’m struck by how different everything feels. The same world surrounds me, yet my perception has shifted fundamentally. Like countless others before me, I embarked on this journey in spring of 2017 in Texas, USA following the teachings of S.N. Goenka, seeking something I couldn’t quite name.
The course structure is deceptively simple: ten days of noble silence, meditation from 4:30 AM to 9:00 PM, vegetarian meals, and no external communications. But within this simplicity lies a profound technique for mental purification that has been preserved for over 2,500 years.
The first three days focus solely on Anapana meditation – observing the natural breath. I initially found this frustrating. “Just breathing? For three whole days?” My mind rebelled, churning up forgotten memories, future plans, and endless distractions. But gradually, almost imperceptibly, my attention grew sharper, more focused.
Then came Vipassana proper – the systematic observation of bodily sensations with complete equanimity. Goenka-ji’s evening discourses illuminated the profound wisdom behind this practice. Every sensation, pleasant or unpleasant, shares one characteristic: impermanence (anicca). By observing this truth experientially, we begin to break free from the cycle of craving and aversion that causes our suffering.
The challenges could be intense for many people. Sitting still for hours can bring physical pain. Old memories and emotions surfaced with surprising intensity. Yet the technique offered a practical tool: remain equanimous, observe sensations objectively, and watch them pass away. Through this process, deep-rooted mental patterns (sankaras) gradually dissolve.
What strikes me most was the scientific nature of the technique. This isn’t about adopting new beliefs or joining a religion. It’s a practical method of self-observation and mental purification that anyone can verify through their own experience. As Goenkaji often emphasized, “Truth is truth. Don’t accept it because I say so – experience it for yourself.”
The benefits have been profound. My mind feels clearer, more stable. Reactions that once seemed automatic now have a pause button. There’s a deeper understanding that everything – good or bad – is temporary. Most importantly, I’ve gained a practical tool for continuing this work of mental purification in daily life.
To those considering a Vipassana course: yes, it’s challenging. Yes, it requires dedication. But the potential rewards – genuine peace, mental mastery, and liberation from suffering – are immeasurable. The courses are offered freely, run purely on donations from those who have completed a course and experienced benefits.
As Goenkaji would say, “Be happy!” But not just with blind faith – experience the truth for yourself. May all beings be happy, peaceful, and liberated.
Cheers!
Amit Roy 