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Young Buddhists: Revealing the wisdom of the heart

Young Buddhists: Revealing the wisdom of the heart

Friday 9 April 2021 – Sunday 11 April 2021 at Strathean Retreat Centre

Bookings closed 

 

A weekend retreat exploring the natural ease of the body, heart and mind.


There will be simple guided meditations, great for those new to practising, and as a refresher for people who have been sitting for a while. The schedule will also include talks on mindfulness/Buddhism, experiential exercises, ritual and chanting, and free time to explore the beautiful grounds of Strathean Retreat Centre.

Whether you’re new to Buddhism and meditation or have been practising for some time, this weekend will give you a lovely opportunity to refresh your mind and start new friendships with other meditators.

Open to everyone under 35 years old.

Led by Suryagita and Khemayogini
and supported by the Wellington Young Buddhist team

Please note that this retreat will be running in Covid 19 Level 1 and 2. In level 3, the retreat is cancelled and a full refund (excl. transaction fees) will be given. 

 

Book Now: $210 / $160 / $160

We want everyone to have the opportunity to come on retreat. If you cannot afford the cost even with concessions, we may be able to help. Please contact us to discuss.

Typical Programme

Time Activity
0700 Morning Meditation
0900 Breakfast
10:30am First Teaching session/ Discussion
1pm Lunch
4pm Afternoon activity/ Discussion
6:30pm Dinner
8pm Evening Meditation/Puja
More questions? Get in touch

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be a Buddhist?

The retreat is suitable for everyone, regardless of your religious beliefs, and makes an excellent first retreat for people who have recently started being involved with meditation and Buddhism.

What should I bring?

You will need to bring a pillow slip and sleeping bag or sheets and duvet, towel and toiletries. Also loose clothing for meditation and pens and paper to take notes.

All mats, blankets, stools and a limited number of cushions will be provided for meditation, but please feel free to bring your own if you prefer.

You may also wish to bring wet weather clothing (gumboots, raincoat, etc), ear plugs and a torch.

What is the accommodation like?

Strathean is based around a large two storey house and its annexes. There are mostly shared single-sex rooms which will be assigned to you on arrival. There a few single rooms for people with special needs. Please contact the organiser if you need a single room.

What about food?

All food is provided. Meals are vegan. If you have a special dietary need please let the organiser know when you book.

How is the cooking and other duties done?

These duties are shared by the retreatants.

Please sign up for cooking and washing up when you arrive.

There will be some work needed to set up for the retreat at the start and to clean at the end.

Do I have to be on the whole retreat?

Normally, yes, as people arriving and leaving the retreat can cause disruption. But please talk to the organiser if you need to arrive late or leave early.

Why do you need to know about health problems I have?

We need to discuss any health issues to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable retreat. This is so we can identify your particular needs and do our best to meet them.

It does not mean you will be excluded from the retreat. One of our order members (who is a trained nurse) will contact you to discuss the problems. All information will be kept confidential and destroyed after the retreat.

What is pūjā?

A pūjā is a traditional Buddhist ritual that engages our emotions and imaginations through the use of colour, beauty and celebration.

To feel fully and vibrantly alive, we need to be engaged with all the different aspects and levels of our being.

Is it okay to come for one day?

Sorry, the retreat is for the whole weekend. Leaving early can disrupt the energy of the retreat therefore we don't allow people to come for one day. There are regular day retreats at the centre which you can attend if you choose.

What is your cancellation policy?

If you no longer wish to attend the retreat your deposit will be refunded less transaction charges unless the retreat is full and there isn't anyone to take your place, in which case the deposit will be non-refundable.

Can I bring pets?

Pets are not allowed on the property. It is the retreat center's policy to not have pets on the property. Exemptions can be made for medical or mobility reasons. Please discuss this with us prior to booking.

The Team

Khemayogini
Khemayogini
Suryagita
Suryagita

Young Buddhists Retreat 2019

How To Get Here

Driving by Car

If you are driving, turn off SH1 onto the Otaki Forks Road, just before Otaki. Drive for 2.6 km then turn right onto Old Hautere Road. Strathean is number 212, about 1 km along this road on the left.  Ideally it takes about an hour from Wellington to get there. But bear in mind you may be travelling through Friday night commuter traffic, so it could take up to two hours.

Travelling by Train

Please discuss this with the retreat organiser prior to the retreat. 

Train to Ōtaki: 

It would be the most helpful if you take the Capital Connection Express train that goes to Palmerston North and stops at Ōtaki. This leaves at 5:15pm from Wellington Station. There is only one evening train. Ticket is $14 one way and can be purchased on board or at the station. Please take cash.

Train to Waikanae   (Timetable)

The other option is to take the normal metro train to Waikanae. They leave every 30 mins or so. Please let us know when you leave Wellington.  We can organise someone to pick you up from the Waikanae train station.