DVI Steering Committee member Jon Twersky had the pleasure of meeting with Rae Hoiuseman to discuss her daylong retreat, Integrated Connection.
DVI: What would you like participants to know about the daylong retreat “Integrated Connection”?
Rae: Immersing ourselves in a mindfulness practice fosters a connection of body, heart, and mind, along with a deeper sense of belonging. In our daily lives, a sense of disconnection can arise, presenting a gap between our formal practice and daily routines. During the retreat we will explore this gap and take a deeper look at what happens in an immersive practice environment. We will consider the possibility of skillfully working with challenges and difficulties that arise, learning how to cultivate a presence that connects us to ourselves and others.
DVI: What drew you to the practice of mindfulness and meditation?
Rae: My journey into mindfulness and meditation began at different stages. At 19, I read 'The Tao of Pooh", which sparked my interest in the potential of living a spiritual life. Later, I moved to San Francisco and took a philosophy course that introduced me to the teachings of the Buddha. Around this time, I started engaging in various reflective practices. In graduate school, while studying Somatic Psychology, I developed a regular meditation practice, which became a formative experience. Beneath all these experiences was a sense of intrigue and resonance. There was a feeling of meaning and familiarity in the practice. I knew on some level that I wanted to learn more about the teachings.
DVI: What inspires you to continue your practice?
Rae: The practice gives my life the greatest sense of fulfillment and meaning. Beyond the noticeable differences in my life when I don't have a daily practice, it is the love of liberation and openness that offers depth and a sense of enrichment.
DVI: Recently you were accepted into the four-year teacher training program at IMS. Can you share some insight about the program?
Rae: The four-year program includes study and practice, with three seven-day retreats each year. During these retreats, participants engage in both practice and an in-depth exploration of the dharma, focusing on how to skillfully share the teachings. We examine how the teachings translate to Western culture and identify areas where we can bring more awareness to the sharing of the dharma. This includes taking a deeper look at who has access to the teachings, how the dharma is being taught, which aspects are emphasized, and what might be left out due to concerns about cultural reception.
DVI: How do you see yourself sharing the practice and supporting others?
Rae: A big part of my work is encouraging more joy and playfulness in the practice. Often, there is too much seriousness, with rigid ideas about what should or shouldn’t happen, or what is or isn’t skillful. Creating space to view situations with a lighter heart can foster a more joyful practice that is less analytical and self-focused, leading to more open and connected experiences.
To learn more about Rae Houseman, please visit raehouseman.com.