META MEDITATION RETREAT

The Buddha was once asked “What is the most important foundation for Samadhi (ie deep meditation)?”

And the answer was surprising. =. Happiness.

It is surprising because we all think meditation is supposed to deliver happiness (which it does) – so how is happiness a foundation for deeper meditation?  Well if the heart is joyous the mind is more content to rest in that joy in the moment. And one of the best ways to bring about that joy is loving kindness – Or in Sanscrit – META.

Are you ready to go deeper?

On this retreat, we will explore a number of loving-kindness meditations that have been used for centuries to bring about feelings of love, forgiveness, interconnectedness and also immense joy.

Now you might think – “Well if we have the aim of our own happiness – does this not defile the sincere wish to make happiness for others? Would it not be selfish to do a retreat to specifically increase your own happiness while pretending to send love to others?”

This is a common thought and while it is true we must be sincere in our wish to benefit others in an altruistic manner – Who says we should be miserable in order to make others happy? In fact, the opposite is true. We can be of much greater benefit to others if we are in a state of happiness ourselves. And are we not worthy of that happiness that we send to others?

So we tackle this and other issues on the retreat as well as learning techniques and meditations to amplify our feelings of compassion and love toward others and in turn, we open our hearts to the flow of love in the universe and fill our body with the joy that this brings. And this in turn will help us remove the blocks we may have built up to our own deeper meditation practice.

By attending this weekend retreat you’ll have the opportunity to learn solid techniques, that have proved the test of time, that help you cultivate your own inner peace practices in a safe and supportive environment. In this retreat we will continue on from the teachings of the technique, We learn how to cope with obstacles that come up in mediation and take a deep dive into understanding the mind and in particular how our mind projects problems into our world which keep up distracted.

All lessons are shared with you by teachers that also live in your world – who themselves juggle the challenges of balancing work, family, relationships and keeping up with changing technology and modern day life, and who know first-hand the value of dedicating time to reconnecting with ourselves.

COULD YOU BENEFIT FROM A WEEKEND ESCAPE THAT GIVES YOU SOME SPACE TO RE-CONNECT WITH YOU?

At Skillful MIND we aim to offer you a retreat that:

• Provides a variety of down to earth teachings – suitable for everyday people living in a world of family, work and modern stresses
• Presents with easy to understand language to help you grasp the concepts
• Is suitable for anyone interested in learning about their mind body connection – whether you’re a beginner or have some experience
• Has a great balance of theory and practise – giving you a solid foundation to build your own practice after retreat
• Is complimentary to existing faith or beliefs
• Teaches you a diverse range of take home techniques you can implement immediately
• Gives you a supportive environment to explore yourself
• Takes only a weekend – making it easier to fit it into your busy lifestyle

IMMERSE YOURSELF IN THE DEEPEST OF MEDITATIONS

LEARN TECHNIQUES OF MEDITATION, AND MIND MASTERY, OVER A WEEKEND

HOW WOULD YOU FEEL ABOUT LEARNING ANCIENT TECHNIQUES OF MEDITATION FROM SOMEONE WHO’S STUDIED IT FOR DECADES,

BUT LIVES IN YOUR KIND OF WORLD WITH THE PRESSURES OF KIDS, WORK AND NORMAL STRESSES OF EVERYDAY LIFE?

Peter Radcliffe has travelled the world learning the ancient art of meditation, and his passion is to share it – and help as many people as he can love the lives they live.

Take a journey into the foundations of meditation, designed especially for those who want to gain a deeper understanding of the benefits a meditation practice can bring.

Over the weekend Peter will share his down to earth, highly informative yet gentle meditation instructions. This Meditation Retreat is ideal if you are new to meditation, or still learning, but want to go beyond simple guided meditation.

By learning from techniques of the past you will master the basics, and gain a solid understanding of what meditation is, how it works, and how it can benefit your mind and body. Based solidly in the Buddhist tradition, yet free from religion, Peter brings his own modern style of logic and practicality to make meditation a part of your every day life.

You will learn techniques that people around the world have been using for over 2,500 years, and what to expect if you keep up meditation on a regular basis.

IF YOU WANT THE SOLID FOUNDATIONS TO BEGIN, OR FURTHER, YOUR OWN SUCCESSFUL MEDITATION PRACTICE THAT WILL ENHANCE YOUR LIFE, THIS RETREAT IS FOR YOU!

There is nothing greater in this life than one’s own peace, and control, of mind –  would this be of value to you?

PLUS, WOULD YOU BE INTERESTED IN BECOMING A MEDITATION LEADER?

Attendance of the meditation technique retreat qualifies you to attend our Meditation Leaders program. To find out more click here.

WHY A RETREAT?

A Retreat allows you time to focus on understanding, and re-connecting with yourself, in a supportive environment free from day to day distractions, in the company of like-minded people. In this atmosphere it is common for people to progress much faster than through weekly lessons, or on their own.

A RETREAT IS NOT A HOLIDAY – IT’S AN ADVENTURE OF SPIRIT!

In today’s world, we don’t often make ourselves a priority – forgetting that to be able to offer strength, love and happiness to others we must first cultivate it within. A retreat is a commitment to connect with your best self, a commitment to a live a life you love.

WHO WILL BE MY TEACHER?

Skillful MIND’s father and founder Peter Radcliffe will be your primary guide and meditation technique teacher. He’s traveled the world experiencing meditation in many forms, and his passion in life for sharing the peace that can be found through meditation is contagious. His teachings are free from religion, practical and down to earth – which previous students have loved. For testimonials please click here.

If you’re ready to experience a life affirming weekend away book now to gain that ‘thing’ you’ve been missing in life. 

WHERE IS IT, AND WHAT’S THE ACCOMMODATION LIKE?

Get ready for an escape to the country!

Situated on the outskirts of Strathalbyn, Glenbarr is a heritage listed homestead set on 35 acres of gently undulating farming land alongside the meandering Middle Creek. It’s intimate and rustic feel is perfect for disconnecting and taking time for yourself while on meditation retreat.

Glenbarr is located 45 minutes South West of Adelaide in the quiet rural countryside near Strathalbyn. It is on the edge of the township and only a short walk to the centre of this historic town with its beautiful memorial gardens, stunning heritage buildings and collection of antique shops and cafes.

Linen Required: When staying at Glenbarr please be sure to bring all your own linen – including single sheet set/sleeping bag, blankets (extra camp style blankets are available in bedrooms) pillow & pillowcase, towel/s, face-washer and soap

All rooms have heating, however in winter you might wish to bring a wheat bag or hot water bottle for bed warming.

History

Glenbarr was originally a home for Scottish pioneers and was one of the first buildings in Strathalbyn built in c1842. The buildings are a unique insight to the lifestyle of the early pioneers in rural Australia. Many of the original buildings are used by groups with modern accommodation and bathroom facilities to ensure a comfortable stay.

Accommodation

Bedrooms are simple dorm/bunkhouse style accommodation. Rooms sleep up to 4 people in single beds (separate male & female) plus bunk. Modern communal bathroom facilities (separate male/female)

The accommodation may be basic, but the views, space and country air make up for it! This venue really gives you a chance to ‘disconnect’ from your everyday world, and enjoy gorgeous countryside while immersing in your spiritual growth while on retreat.

Directions

Take the Freeway towards the Adelaide Hills and exit at Mount Barker. Follow Wellington Road for approximately 5km through to Wistow. Turn right to Strathalbyn (along the B37) following this road for another 15km into Strathalbyn. Veer to the right at the first roundabout. When you reach the intersection of North Parade and Manse Road turn right and follow this road to the North. The Glenbarr gateway is 100m past the Vet surgery on the left hand side of Paris Creek Road.

WHEN DOES IT START – AND WHAT ABOUT DINNER?

The weekend will open for check-in from 4pm Friday and the Welcome ceremony will begin at 6pm. (please arrive by 5.50pm to ensure you’re settled and we can start on time)

Finger food (dips, crackers, cheese, dried fruit and nuts etc) will be served during our welcome – if you would like something more substantial please either bring, or go and get some food beforehand. A fridge, microwave, plates etc are available for use.

The retreat will finish at approx. 3.30/4pm Sunday

WHAT’S INCLUDED?

Your weekend retreat includes:

• 2 nights accommodation
• Weekend of teachings – you’ll be amazed how much there is to learn!
• Yummy meals from Friday night nibbles until Sunday lunch – delicious and nourishing!
• Yoga classes – suitable for all skill levels
• Early morning silent Meditation sessions – optional but recommended 🙂
• Introductory session for NLP Coaching – another tool to increase your mind awareness

WHAT DO YOU DO ON RETREAT?

When available you can also ‘download the attachment’ below for a schedule of the retreat. Please note that it is subject to change (due to weather or other circumstances) and retreat attendees will be provided with the actual schedule on retreat.  Sessions will vary depending on your choice of Meditation or Yoga retreat.

WHAT’S THE FOOD LIKE?

2 words – Simply Delicious!

Skillful MIND retreat attendees rave about the food while on retreat – the only complaint is that there’s too much yummy goodness!

The menu has been designed as healthy and wholesome in a home cooked style. It’s simple but is full of flavour and you body will thank you for the nourishment. See top right for a link to sample menus. Our venues are also happy to cater for Lactose/Gluten Free, Vegetarian, Vegan or any special dietary requirements you may have.

Please note: while on retreat we recommend you choose the vegetarian option (if you are not already). This gives your digestion time to also have a break, and in many philosophies it’s said that a meat free diet is more conducive to a meditation and yoga practice. Vegetarian can be chosen in dietary requirements when booking .

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?

The cost of retreat will depend on where it is, and what accommodation option you choose. At Glenbarr the prices are:

• $550pp for share rooms
• $695pp for private room (extremely limited)

WHAT ARE OTHERS SAYING ABOUT THE RETREAT?

I’VE GOT MORE QUESTIONS…..

Not a problem, give us a call on 1300 55 66 71. We’re happy to help you decide if a retreat would be right for you.

Take the time and invest in your own Wellbeing!

Imagine having the ability to become aware of your emotions and stop stress in its tracks, before it has a chance to sink its teeth in.

Imagine knowing what it really means to take the time and ‘smell the roses’ and appreciate what you have, rather than what you don’t.

THIS IS WHAT MEDITATION  AND YOGA ALREADY DOES FOR MILLIONS OF PEOPLE AROUND THE WORLD, AND IT CAN DO IT FOR YOU TOO.