This weekend of concentrated Zen practice is hosted by the Wellington-Manawatu Mountains and Rivers Order students. Held at Strathean, Otaki, the retreat schedule includes zazen (Zen meditation), liturgical services, recorded Dharma talks or an elder's talk, and oryoki meals: all a precious opportunity to restore and sharpen our focus on our lives. As with all Zen retreats, participants must have received beginner's instruction in zazen and have some experience sitting with our group (or similar). Opportunities for beginner's instruction and to join us for group meditation are available prior to the event – please check our Wellington and Manawatu webpages. We would love to have you join us.
If you have any special dietary requirements, let us know beforehand so we can plan menus accordingly. Please indicate when registering if you need transport to or from the retreat or whether you can assist with transport. This will help with the organisation and planning of the event. Please allow an hour and a half's travel time from central Wellington either side of the retreat. The cost is $150 for the weekend, with subsidies available for those on a low or limited income. If you require financial assistance, please contact us about this ahead of the retreat.
Starts Friday 3 May at 5:00pm - finishes Sunday 5 May at 2:00pm.
What to bring:
sleeping bag, pillow (bring earplugs if you are a light sleeper)
towel
torch
raincoat
woollen hat
outdoor clothing and footwear for work practice
loose fitting clothing for meditation, dark or muted in colour (no bright colours or patterns, please).
Let us know if you wish to attend as soon as possible, so that we can be sure of the number of places.
