Hitting reset

If you, like many, find yourself walking around in a daze this week asking “why?” – and the bottle, press and social media has offered few answers perhaps some quiet introspection is in order.

Fortunately, the Durango Dharma Center is here to help answer, or at least try to get at the root of, those existential questions.

This weekend, the Dharma Center presents “Dharma, Culture and Freedom: A Fundamental Shift in Perspective,” a three-day retreat led by renowned meditation guru, wellness coach and psychotherapist DaRa Williams.

“As a practicing therapist for more than 30 years, Williams has dedicated herself to working at the intersection of social justice, spiritual practice and well-being,” according to Dharma Center spokeswoman Kate Siber. “She is particularly articulate about diversity issues and how we can begin to heal the unjust social conditions of our country by healing our- selves. Perhaps there’s no better time to bring a fresh perspective on such topics.”

Based out of New York City, where she runs a private practice, Williams specializes in treating oppression trauma and historical trauma among minorities and other marginalized people. Her background includes everything from the aforementioned meditation to shamanism; Orisha, a West African spiritual practice; and Native American traditions.

“At the same time, she is totally down to earth, funny, and a delight to talk to,” Siber said.

Williams is also active in many of the country’s utmost Buddhist meditation centers, including the Insight Meditation Society in Barre, Mass., and California’s Spirit Rock Center.

The retreat, which starts with a session from 7 – 9 p.m. Fri., Nov. 11 and continues all day Sat. and Sun., Nov. 12-13, will explore concepts of personal and collective freedom, diversity, culture and identity, kindness, and compassion. Participants will employ a variety of modes, such as sitting and walking meditation, reflection, mindfulness exercises and small group sharing.

If all this sounds like a good way to hit the internal reboot, go to durangodharmacenter.org to sign up. The retreat is open to all, including those new to meditation. Cost is on a sliding scale and financial assistance is available. For more info., contact Ginger St. Ours, gingerstours@gmail.com or (970) 946-1025.