Healing the Heart, Refining the Mind, Finding Freedom
In the Buddha’s teaching, going on retreat can be understood as a powerful form of “taking refuge,” by temporarily withdrawing from our external responsibilities to tend to our inner life.
The peaceful natural environment of Te Moata supports deep rest and renewal, which in turn, supports the strengthening of our inner resources, our connection with sangha/community and our capacity to live with more ease and freedom in whatever circumstances we find ourselves in.
Over the course of nine days, we will explore a variety of foundational Buddhist practices, including the Four Establishments of Mindfulness that orient us to deep freedom, the four Brahmavihāra practices of kindness, compassion, joy, and equanimity that open the heart and mind, and some relational practice meditating together in pairs or small groups, to strengthen our sense of sangha/community.
Each day will include a mix of guided and silent sitting meditation, walking meditation, optional mindful movement, small group discussion and individual meetings with the teachers.
Teachers: Jill Shepherd and Diana Robertson