Deep Natural Peace – a visual essay of a meditation retreat

Rest, relaxation, regeneration. The deep, natural peace that comes with retreating from our daily life, joining with like-minded people and journeying inwards. And yes, this visual essay harks back to 2016, and I did stumble upon it while searching something else. However, it is so evocative and such a good descriptor for the coming long weekend meditation retreat November 6 - 8; here it is

Deep Natural Peace





                 This is the meditation












Then there is the Yarra Valley.

Remarkable natural beauty complemented by years of being tended by loving gardeners.

Then there is the Yarra Valley.
Remarkable natural beauty complemented by years of being tended by loving gardeners.





                   This is the forest











So this week, a celebration in photographs and a few words of this annual highlight of our calendar, Meditation in the Forest, but first

Thought for the day

   We are what we think.
   All that we are arises with our thoughts.
   With our thoughts we make the world.


   Speak or act with an impure mind
   And sorrow will follow you 
   As the wheel follows the ox that draws the cart.


   Speak or act with a pure mind
   And happiness will follow you 
   As your shadow, unshakeable.

                 The Buddha

So enough words...

      We gather at the 
      Yarra Valley Living Centre…

 Some of the locals remained nonplussed…














      Others somewhat indifferent…










But we gathered and discussed the mind and its workings… and meditation of course...

       Entered into the purpose built
        meditation sanctuary

         To meditate together regularly
        throughout the day…











   Extended the sitting into walking…

         Some also walk the labyrinth
          with its curious way
          of aiding contemplation…

Some just pause a while, and watched the river flow; the Little Yarra River that is…














  

      While all experienced the delight
      of sharing with like minds…













Very comfortable accommodation, either doubles with ensuites or more economical shared spaces…











   

              And the food!


                    Just what people expected!

                                                 :)








     But of course,
    fresh herbs from the magical herb garden...












Then more free time to reflect,
to regenerate,
to experience the peace...

and watch the river flow by some more...











       Rounded off by the wisdom of a tree

                  












         With a great group of people!!!














                       Deep, natural peace

NEXT MEDITATION RETREAT

DEEP NATURAL PEACE
A unique opportunity to experience the deep natural peace and clarity of profound meditation

3 Day Meditation Immersion with Ian Gawler
NOVEMBER 2026 – Friday 6th to Saturday the 8th - Yarra Junction

These days, many people have had some introduction to meditation and the power of the mind. Soon comes the realisation of the extraordinary depth and breadth of it all. And often we get a sense there is more to it …..   More to experience ..…

So while this retreat will include ample instruction, the focus will be upon direct experience; finding and immersing ourselves in the deep inner peace, the regenerative power and the clarity of our own stillness.

This process will be enhanced by being in the wonderful, peaceful and majestic forests of the Upper Yarra Valley, by being supported by the staff and amenities of the Gawler Foundation’s Living Centre, and guided by Ian and Ruth Gawler along with Julia Broome.

For details CLICK HERE