Words to the wise about Vipassana retreats

Everything you write here is true, Troy Erstling; having had my first “retreat”, I’d say you are spot on. In particular, your two advices stand out that I too think works:

One, eat moderately/sparingly in retreat. This is tricky. Restrict yourself even if the food looks tempting (and retreat meals are plenty, healthy, sumptuous, and really really tasty!), but you have to be guarded. This is your test of guarding against your craving for more food. Be very **mindful** about your eating.

Two, nap during the break time. The retreat I went to we had to work right after the meal time and they gave us two hours break, but again, this is the best advice anyone can give to a retreat attendant. Take the time to nap. It will do two things: calm you down and help you to concentrate better, and it will work wonders for those sore muscles in the leg for sitting for so long (assuming that you are not familiar with sitting cross-legged for more than 30 minutes at a stretch).