Whatever it was that first brought you to meditation, you probably realise there is something more profound on offer. For me, as for many, it was major illness. For others - too stressed, wanting to perform better, difficult relationships, loss and grief, too much pain... All very valid reasons for beginning meditation.
But then, as the practice begins to kick in and the dust feels like it is settling, there may come a glimpse... A glimpse of an inner reality. A glimpse of a peace “beyond understanding”. A peace, and a clarity that is beyond words, beyond thought; and yet it can be alluded to with the spoken word, and experienced directly within our own mind.
This glimpse can be genuinely transformative…
It is as if we have lived under clouds for all our life, and then suddenly, the clouds clear, and reveal this glorious, vast, pure, pristine blue sky.
It only takes a glimpse to know the sky is for real.
Then it becomes a matter of how we may experience it more regularly?
More frequently?
When it comes to “the mind”, the journey to know the inner essence of the mind is called meditation.
So now, this is actually the 500th blog since the first way back on the 8th September 2010. I enjoy writing, have not written a new book for a while, and writing the blog keeps that side of my creativity and expression active. So thank you for all of you who continue to show an interest and read... On this landmark occasion it does seem fitting to be writing about meditation, and another passion – leading meditation retreats, but first
Thought for the day
Just as both light and warmth blaze from the sun,
Wisdom and loving compassion radiate out
From the mind’s innermost nature.
Sogyal Rinpoche
Here is the problem.
Amidst the busyness of daily life, becoming settled enough to experience this inner stillness of our mind can be tricky. Hence the value of making the effort to go on a meditation retreat.
By removing ourselves from the activities and concerns of our daily life, by going into an environment that supports the process of settling the mind, by taking time out and joining like-minded people; we give ourselves a real chance of experiencing what we can call the heart and essence of meditation.
So for this year’s main, annual retreat, this is the focus. The direct experience of the stillness of our own mind. Deep, natural peace. This retreat will offer the best I have learnt from my own wonderful teachers, and be styled along the lines Ruth and I have learnt from presenting retreats over decades. Everything about the retreat has been designed with experiencing this elusive stillness more directly. Here is how we will go about it...
Day 1
We settle in, get to know each other a little, have a short overview teaching and focus our guided practice sessions on simply relaxing; leaving behind the busyness, and entering into the spirit of the retreat.
Key methods will be introduced – the use of contemplation and how to structure your practice sessions to best effect while on retreat.
In the evening; the delight of Michael Johnson and his meditative harp – profound peace and relaxation through music...
Day 2
The focus turns to deep relaxation.
Easiest felt in the body, easiest to accomplish in the body.
Deep, physical relaxation.
Aided by Melissa Borich’s much-loved gentle, meditative yoga sessions (optional but highly recommended).
We are preparing ourselves to be free to let go and enter into the meditation proper. It is well worth being patient and thorough...
Day 3
So now we take the relaxation even deeper... relaxation of the mind.
Key techniques for letting go of those persistent thoughts and emotions.
This may well come as a relief...
Day 4
Next, we use the device of focusing our awareness upon sounds to actually experience something of the stillness. It is like we use the sound to become aware of the silence. From sound into stillness. This technique is incredibly practical and effective, and when practiced in a retreat setting can lead directly into the experience of the stillness.
Day 5
But what then of thoughts?
And emotions?
Even as we settle and begin to have longer glimpses of the inner peace and clarity, thoughts and emotions are bound to come up.
Some welcome ones; some unwelcome.
So what to do?
First we explore this theoretically. Then we contemplate; knowledge can lead to wisdom. And finally we enter into another series of exercises that reliably leads from thoughts and emotions into peace. This is the heart of the practice.
Day 6
Having established some experience of real meditation, now we have a day of practice guided by Ian, Ruth and Melissa. A chance to rest in the direct experience...
Day 7
Preparing for the transition back into our home environment.
Being on retreat is not like anything else.
It provides this special opportunity to take time out, to reflect on where we are in our lives and where we want to be heading; to learn new skills to review and re-group.
So a lot to integrate; to make sense of, and to merge back into our daily life.
The intention is to return refreshed, revitalised; with a new sense of purpose and a clear sense of the way ahead.
So is it your time? Will you join us as we leave our daily lives behind for a while, and travel into the heart and essence of meditation?
The Heart and Essence of Meditation will have great appeal to long term meditators, but due to the inherent simplicity, it also will be very accessible to those newer to meditation; even beginners.
Your days will include:
• The delight of being in a meditative environment free of external distractions.
•
The Upper Yarra Valley is renowned for its natural beauty and inherent peace; The Yarra Valley Living Centre has been a place for meditation for many decades. You can feel it; and relax into it…
• A daily teaching from Ian combining the best of timeless wisdom with modern science.
• All the meditation sessions will be guided personally by Ian, Ruth and Melissa. Enough practice to be meaningful but not inconsequential or onerous.
• Relaxing, gentle yet powerful daily yoga led by Melissa – optional.
• Space for personal quiet time, along with the possibility of walks amidst the natural beauty of the Upper Yarra Valley.
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Wonderful plant-based meals; simple yet delicious; highly supportive of the meditation.
• Being amidst like-minded company.
Some come on retreat preferring silence (a personal choice), but many delight in meaningful conversations with the diverse groups that inevitably gather for these retreats.
• Good time for discussion, questions and answers. If you have nagging questions around your meditation, or the philosophy that wraps around it, be sure to bring them along…
REGISTRATION – How to apply
1. The first step is to download the Application Form HERE, fill it out and return it by email to our Program Manager, Mel Crow: mel@insighthealth.com.au
2. Once Mel has received your completed application, she will arrange a short phone conversation to clarify what the retreat offers, discuss your needs, answer any questions and ensure the retreat is suitable for you.
3. Once accepted for the retreat, you pay a deposit or full fee to reserve your place.
4. Full payment is due 3 weeks prior to the commencement of your training.
The retreat does not end on the last day!
We know the benefit, indeed, the need, of offering on-going support and involvement. This we do through the Meditation Community.
The Meditation Community is an online sanctuary for meditators of all levels, where learning, practising, and connecting happen in one supportive space. Here, you can join with Ian, Ruth and Melissa, along with other experienced teachers; come together and learn, grow, meditate together and simply be still…
With the Meditation Community you will find guidance, encouragement, and like-minded people ready to walk alongside you.
Here is what is waiting for you inside:
• Community Chat & Interaction
Ask. Share. Reflect. This is where questions turn into insights, and strangers become companions on the path.
• Recordings: Practices That Meet You Where You Are
Guided sessions with Ian and Ruth Gawler. You can listen to these as you would on an App.
Relaxation, Mindfulness, Awareness, Stillness, Contemplations, Guided Imagery and more. Each practice comes with an introduction and script to help you settle in with ease.
• Regular Live Sessions – We Call Them “Circles”
Why “Circles”? Because everyone is welcome, and everyone contributes. Choose from:
i) Teaching Circles – Learn. Reflect. Practice.
ii) Daily Awakening Circles – guided practice, brief intro, then a solid, nourishing practice.
iii) Healing Circles – the power of guided imagery and collective, directed practice.
iv) Discussion Circles – put voice to your experiences and questions. Listen deeply.
• Evidence That Grounds the Practice
Access a curated library of research showing how meditation supports your body, mind, and spirit.
• Recordings of Talks & Workshops
Did you miss a live session? Revisit powerful teachings from Ian and others anytime you need a boost.
• Self-Paced Contemplation & Meditation Course
Explore Ian Gawler’s 8-part online program in your own time (additional cost).
• Plus, regular themed workshops, new content, and ongoing support
Because meditation is more than just a practice – it is a way of life.
Ready to join us?
Simply click the link below to join us.
👉 Join The Meditation Community
And to repeat, to register for the retreat, download the Application Form HERE, fill it out and return it by email to our Program Manager, Mel Crow: mel@insighthealth.com.au
OTHER COMING EVENTS
Join me for an evening meditation workshop on Thursday March 26th: Meditation in Daily Life – a Way of Being
Or for those ready and willing, train with Ruth and myself to teach others to meditate – and in the process deepen your own practice and understanding:
Mindfulness-Based Stillness Meditation 11-15May, Contemplation 31Oct-4November: CLICK HERE
