Zen retreat April 2018

Join us at Karua Retreat Centre, Portugal for a 7 day Sesshin (Zen meditation retreat).

The first four and a half days will be spent in silence and the schedule will include zazen (seated meditation), Kinhin (walking meditation), Yin Yoga and dharma talks by our teacher Hamid.

Traditionally at the end of a silent retreat, the participants all leave with little time to discuss the thoughts and feelings that came up for them during the silence. However at this retreat we will spend the last day and a half together, during which time we can share and open up with regard to whatever it has been that we have processed during the meditation sessions.

And we can explore further different aspects of the teachings to offer a frame work to help you make better sense of your experience to take into your daily lives.

This is an opportunity to spend time away from distractions and dedicate yourself wholeheartedly to meditation. When the ripples of an over-active mind are calmed as you focus your attention on the present, the look you take at your life deepens.

Connecting your mind through Zen meditation will help you see the world and yourself with a greater sense of clarity.

ABOUT THE TEACHER

Hamid has been a student of Zen for over twenty years and was ordained as a monk in 2000. He is a disciple of Zen Master Ryotan Tokuda who in 2012 gave him sanction to teach. Hamid is a counsellor in practice. He has spent many years in India and Indonesia where he has taught meditation, philosophy and comparative spirituality.

The teachings are inspired by both Eastern and Western spirtiaul traditions, particularly Zen Buddhism.

Jennifer is a yoga teacher, thai masseuse and trainee mountain guide in the Chamonix valley. She first met Hamid 4 years ago at her yoga teacher training in Bali and has explored Buddhisht teachings with him ever since. Jennifer will offer a yin yoga class each day to compliment our time sitting together.

ABOUT THE RETREAT CENTRE

Karuna Retreat Center is a dedicated mediation retreat centre located in the green mountains of Serra de Monchique in the Algarve. Serra the Monchique is known for it’s healing thermal water, medicinal plants, pure air and lush green landscapes. The Retreat Center offers a stunning view over Portugal's southern coast and the Atlantic Ocean and is just 20 minutes away from pristine beaches and less than 10 minutes away from the picturesque village of Monchique and Caldas de Monchique (Thermal SPA). Karuna is amongst one of the most secluded and silent places in this area and is home to a variety of local flora and fauna. The Retreat Center’s property is isolated and perfect for those in search of silence, seclusion and peace.

COST

600 euros per person

Deposit of 300 euros payable to secure your place and a further 300 euros payable in cash on arrival.

NUMBER OF PLACES

Limited to 20 people

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE

Accommodation - Bed in a shared room

Food - Three beautiful and healthy vegetarian meals provided each day from the evening of Monday 9th april until the morning of Monday 16th april

NOT INCLUDED

Flights and transport to the accommodation (details to follow).