The Four Immeasurables: Warm Heart Fitness with Marina Vinyals & Hans Burghardt

shantidevanyc.org/marina-hans-retreat-sep26/

Sat Sep 12, 2–5pm EDT

Sun Sep 13, 10:30am–4:30pm EDT

 IN-PERSON & ONLINE

We all aspire to happiness and well-being. Recognizing this shared wish in ourselves and in others is the beginning of a journey that can transform the way we relate to ourselves, the people around us, and the world. According to the Mahayana Buddhist tradition, lasting happiness grows as we learn to care for the well-being of others as much as our own. This path invites us to look honestly at the habits and attitudes that keep us stuck—such as self-centeredness, fear, or misunderstanding—and to replace them with wisdom, kindness, and compassion. At the heart of this practice are the Four Immeasurables, four qualities that can be developed by anyone, regardless of background or beliefs. They are called “immeasurable” because they are meant to be extended without limits—to ourselves, to those we love, to people we find difficult, and ultimately to all living beings.

Throughout this course, we will explore these four qualities:

• Loving-kindness: the genuine wish for ourselves and others to experience lasting happiness
• Compassion: the heartfelt desire for ourselves and others to be free from suffering
• Sympathetic joy: the ability to delight in the happiness, success, and good fortune of others, rather than comparing ourselves or feeling envy
• Equanimity: a balanced and open-hearted attitude that helps us respond to life’s challenges without being overwhelmed by attachment, aversion, or indifference

These qualities support and strengthen one another, creating a foundation for greater inner peace, emotional resilience, and healthier relationships. Combining reflection, guided meditation, and practical exercises, this course offers simple yet profound tools for bringing these timeless teachings into everyday life. Whether you are curious about Buddhist philosophy, interested in meditation, or simply looking for practical ways to cultivate more kindness, compassion, and balance, you will find a welcoming space to explore and grow.