At the end of April there is the opportunity to experience a weekend of concentrated Zen practice with the Wellington-Manawatu combined retreat at Strathean, Otaki. There will be a schedule of zazen (Zen meditation), liturgical services, recorded Dharma talks, and oryoki meals: all a precious opportunity to restore and sharpen our focus on our lives. As with all Zen retreats, attendees will be required to have received beginner's instruction and had 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 timetable. 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 27th April at 5:00pm - finishes Sunday 29th April 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 loud 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. Feel free to forward this invitation on to others you think might be interested.
