The Buddhist Retreat That Uses Common One As Part Of Its Music Meditation

April 1, 2025

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm orange glow across the serene mountains, the participants of the Buddhist retreat gathered in the peaceful meditation hall. Among them was Aria, a passionate young musician who had come to this retreat seeking clarity and inspiration for her music. The atmosphere was filled with whispers of calmness, and the scent of sandalwood incense lingered in the air. Aria had been struggling with her songwriting, feeling lost and disconnected from her art. She hoped that this retreat would help her rediscover her passion.

The highlight of the retreat was the music meditation session, where participants would listen to the enchanting sounds of “Common One,” an album by Van Morrison that was known for its deeply spiritual and uplifting themes. As the soothing notes flowed through the room, Aria closed her eyes and let the music wash over her. Each melody felt like a gentle embrace, guiding her thoughts away from self-doubt and into a space of creativity. The lyrics spoke of love, hope, and resilience—qualities that Aria desperately needed to reconnect with. With every strum of the guitar and every hum of the chorus, she could feel the weight of her worries lifting.

As the session progressed, Aria felt a spark ignite within her. The combination of the tranquil environment and the powerful music allowed her to reflect on her own journey. She thought about the hardships she had faced as an artist, the countless rejections, and the sleepless nights spent wondering if she’d ever achieve her dreams. But in the midst of the peaceful melodies, she realized that each challenge she encountered had only strengthened her resolve. The music reminded her of the beauty in vulnerability and the importance of expressing one’s true self.

In the days that followed, Aria found herself writing like never before. Inspired by the teachings of mindfulness and self-acceptance at the retreat, she poured her heart into her songs. The melodies flowed effortlessly, and she discovered a new depth to her lyrics. She began to see her music not just as a means to gain attention but as a way to inspire and heal others, just as “Common One” had done for her. The more she wrote, the more she felt connected to her audience, as if they were sharing a journey together through the struggles of life.

By the end of the retreat, Aria emerged more confident in herself and her music. The experience had transformed her perspective, making her realize that resilience was not just about pushing through; it was about embracing every emotion and sharing that vulnerability through her art. She left the retreat with a notebook filled with new songs and a heart full of hope. When she returned home, she immediately began recording her music, incorporating the themes of love and resilience that had resonated so deeply with her.

Months later, after performing her new songs at local venues, Aria received an invitation to play at a larger festival. As she stood on stage, the lights shining down on her, the crowd cheering with anticipation, she felt a rush of gratitude. She thought back to that retreat, the music that had reignited her spirit, and the journey that had brought her here. With each note she sang, she poured her soul into her performance, knowing that her struggles had turned into her greatest strength. Aria smiled, realizing that she was not just an artist but a beacon of hope for others, and that was the true magic of music.