Equanimity ~
Equanimity is a perfect, unshakable balance of mind, rooted in insight. But in its perfection and unshakable nature equanimity is not dull, heartless and frigid… Its unshakable nature is not the immovability of a dead, cold stone, but the manifestation of the highest strength.” — Nyanaponika Thera
What This Retreat Offers
This silent, residential meditation retreat invites participants into the deep cultivation of Mindfulness (Sati) and Equanimity (Upekkha) — qualities essential for navigating life with clarity, ease, and balance. Held in noble silence, the retreat follows a structured daily schedule that includes sitting and walking meditation, mindful movement, chanting, Dharma reflections and instructions, and optional group discussions on integrating practice into daily life. To support deep practice, participants are asked to refrain from phones and internet-connected devices throughout the retreat. Emergency contact information will be provided before arrival. While open to all levels, some prior meditation experience is recommended.
Retreat Leadership
Janka Livoncova is an Insight Meditation Teacher and Somatic Movement Educator with over three decades of dedicated practice. She began her meditation journey in 1994 in the Soto Zen tradition and has studied Vipassana since 2010 under the guidance of teachers Kittisaro and Thanissara. A graduate of Spirit Rock's Community Dharma Leaders program, she leads the Chattanooga Insight Meditation Community and regularly leads retreats in the Chattanooga area. Her teaching is warm, grounded, and rooted in a lifetime of practice.
Who This Retreat Is For
This retreat is especially suited for:
Those with some meditation experience seeking deeper immersion
Anyone longing for extended stillness and structured practice
People navigating stress, uncertainty, or life transitions
Practitioners wishing to cultivate greater balance and clarity
Those drawn to the Buddhist contemplative tradition
Financial Assistance
Pricing includes lodging and all meals. The teacher's instructions are offered in the spirit of Dana — the Buddhist practice of generosity — and retreatants are warmly invited to offer a gift to the teacher from the heart in gratitude for her teaching. Janka receives no other compensation and relies on the generosity of participants.
Scholarships are available for those needing financial assistance. For scholarship inquiries, contact Reservations@stmaryssewanee.org | 931-598-5342
Reserve Your Place
Lodging in Anna House (motel style room, private bathroom), meals
Lodging dorm style, private rooms, shared bathrooms, meals