As cherry blossoms decorated Vancouver with brilliant colors, over 100 students embarked on a relaxing meditation journey at the Vancouver Bodhi Meditation Center’s Stress Relief class.
This happy father-daughter duo from Indonesia was sharing their fruitful experience of attending the Stress Relief Class!
Sopendi (Father):
“I have rheumatoid arthritis in both hands and have been suffering from severe insomnia for over 20 years. Due to stress, my insomnia has been worsening, and I have been unable to sleep. I started taking sleeping pills every day six years ago.
On March 3, 2023, I flew in from Indonesia to visit my family. Due to the significant differences in time zone and temperature, I couldn’t get any rest. During the day, I felt abnormally cold. My arthritis worsened, causing unbearable pain. I couldn’t sleep at night even though I took sleeping pills daily. I was restless and anxious, and every day felt like a year. I had only been in Vancouver for a week, and my unhealthy body was worsening. So I told my daughter I would buy a flight ticket and return to Indonesia early. But my daughter didn’t want me to leave and believed that Bodhi Meditation could help me. Besides, she was worried that I couldn’t endure the 18-hour flight. So I stayed, and unexpectedly, a miracle happened!
“A few years ago, I attended a Bodhi Meditation course in Indonesia, which was very helpful. However, I didn’t continue practicing due to the pandemic and other pressures in life. So when I learned that there was a Bodhi Meditation center in Vancouver, I quickly came over and signed up for the Stress Relief Class.
“After completing the first day of the course, I tried not to take sleeping pills (which I had been taking every day for the past six years). Surprisingly, I could fall asleep smoothly. Since then, I stopped taking sleeping pills and could still sleep soundly every night. When I woke up in the morning, I felt refreshed, happy, and energized to start a new day. I am a completely different person compared to before the class. It’s incredible!
“The pain in my hands (caused by rheumatoid arthritis) also gradually improved in this class. Before, my hands were very stiff, and picking up or holding things was difficult. It was as if my fingers were firmly clamped and unable to move. Now my fingers can move freely.
I am extremely grateful to Grandmaster JinBodhi, and all the teachers and volunteers at Bodhi Meditation. This Stress Relief Class significantly reduced my pain and improved my quality of life. I can sleep well every night without any sleeping pills. I have become healthier, happier, and full of energy. Now, I can truly enjoy the beautiful time in Vancouver.”
Elizabeth (Daughter):
“I am Elizabeth. Initially, I just wanted to accompany my dad to the class, but I didn’t expect to gain so much myself.
“I have scoliosis, a 15-degree curvature to the left of my spine. I can’t stand straight and can only slouch with my shoulders and waist bent. Maintaining a straight posture while standing or sitting for an extended time is extremely difficult. During the class, I often had to stretch and move my legs and body after sitting in meditation for some time, making it impossible for me to concentrate.
“However, on the fifth day, after the teacher gave us an energy healing, I suddenly realized I was focused. I maintained a straight posture without any pain or discomfort the whole time. It was astonishing!
“Moreover, this course allowed me to spend memorable quality time with my family. Previously, finding time to be together was challenging because we were in different countries. But this time, I could genuinely spend time with my family, have fun, and communicate like good friends, which has meant so much to me. It has been a beautiful journey.”
Disclaimer:
• The effects associated with practicing Bodhi Meditation can vary from person to person.
• Any and all content, views, opinions, and/or responses in this student sharing are solely the views, opinions and responsibility of the respondent and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Bodhi Meditation.
• Bodhi Meditation does not provide or replace any medical advice or treatment. We recommend everyone adhere to their medical treatment and prescription.