i did a ~ 7-day self-led retreat at lion of wisdom meditation center. it was invaluable
we did yoga and group meditation twice a day, and there was ample time in between for me to meditate; thus i did upwards of six hours of meditation per day.
i did not attain any grand attainments, but i had a pleasant abiding, and i have access to this experience in memory. it’s easier to see the benefits of practice like this, and despite feeling woes of being a householder i can continue on with hope of one day having the freedom to meditate the majority of a day every day and eventually attain full awakening
anyway, i have more paid time off this year, and i just got my passport in the mail. due to cost and convenience i would rather travel within US, but canada flights are cheap as american flights, and for the right opportunity going anywhere in the world is a possibility, pending travel restrictions
i tend to prefer theravada, but i have mahayana influences, and i don’t care so much if i’m not compelled to practice strictly according to retreat or teacher instructions – btw, i was not required to practice according to lion of wisdom’s instructions but was free to use what i found useful, which i did.
btw, i do support and recommend lion of wisdom meditation center, especially if you are 1) able to lead your own retreat and 2) not picky about amenities