Off to the Myogaksa Templestay Program

Here is what I will be doing for the next two days. Wish me luck!

Myogaksa’s Templestay Program
Myogaksa runs two kinds of Templestay programs: an overnight program and a daylong temple cultural program called Laying Down My Mind. The best feature of Myogaksa’s Templestay program is being able to get a taste of traditional temple life, even while still in the city. At this neighborhood temple, leave the chaotic world behind and experience Yebul (chanting services), Seon Meditation, Communal Work Period, 108 prostrations and the power of noble silence. In particular, there is the unforgettable experience of looking down over Seoul at dusk while ringing the great temple bell. In the early morning, try taking a walk in the nearby Naksan Park. It is a great way to reflect on yourself and turn your attention within. According to your age, personal preferences, and how much time you would like to spend here, we have a variety of programs available for everyone, including video presentations, making lotus lanterns, and taking a walk through the Cheonggye-cheon stream park.

General Schedule

Day 1

• 2:30pm - Filling out application & preparing for Opening Ceremony
- Assigning individual lockers & distributing name tags 
• 3 pm - Learning temple etiquette 
- Opening Ceremony & Introduction of Sunims

• 4:30pm - Making 108 prayer beads

• 6 pm - Evening bell-striking & evening Buddhist ceremony
• 
7 pm - Dinner
• 
8 pm - Meditation with the title ‘Laying Down My Mind’

• 9:30pm - Sleep



Day 2

• 
3:30am - Getting up & Preparing for Predawn Buddhist service
• 
4am - Bell-striking & Predawn Service 
• 
5am - Early Morning Meditation 

• 6am - Taking a walk in Naksan Park

• 7am - Breakfast
8:30am -Group Work (Cleaning the temple)

• 10:30am - Tea Ceremony & Closing Ceremony

Image sourced here.