The five elements provide a dynamic system of understanding life. They make up the world around us and are in all living organisms -  only the proportions differ. When the elements are in balance there is ease and harmony, when out of balance there is dis-ease and disharmony. The balance is constantly changing within and around us.
To help us learn how to work with this ever-changing balance of the elements in a positive way, we first have to get to know them. In this retreat we will become familiar with the characteristics and qualities of each, and observe their interaction. At the same time, we learn to observe our mind-body states in relation to the elements. There will be guided relaxation and creative work around each element, including observation and creative activities. Optional gentle mindful movement before breakfast will be offered. Please bring loose, comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities.

The five elements provide a dynamic system of understanding life. They make up the world around us and are in all living organisms -  only the proportions differ. When the elements are in balance there is ease and harmony, when out of balance there is dis-ease and disharmony. The balance is constantly changing within and around us.
To help us learn how to work with this ever-changing balance of the elements in a positive way, we first have to get to know them. In this retreat we will become familiar with the characteristics and qualities of each, and observe their interaction. At the same time, we learn to observe our mind-body states in relation to the elements. There will be guided relaxation and creative work around each element, including observation and creative activities. Optional gentle mindful movement before breakfast will be offered. Please bring loose, comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities.

People often yearn for an opportunity to recalibrate their lives and to spend some time in quiet reflection among like-minded people. The BRC provides such a refuge - where silence is a precious commodity. This weekend will be unstructured for you to do as much (or as little) reading, walking, meditating, relaxing and resting as you choose. Enjoy hiking and bird watching in 300 acres of beautiful rolling hills, parklands, indigenous valleys and forests. Savour our delicious vegetarian food, browse our well-stocked library, visit the stupa and the raked Zen sand gardens; walk the labyrinth; reflect on the 8 trees associated with the Buddha’s life, enlightenment and death in the beautiful Buddha Boma. Spend solitary time in our deer forest  and tune into just being in the present moment. Self retreating is an ideal opportunity to be in a gentle, sympathetic space where one can be still and get in touch with oneself and reflect on the things that crowd one’s life. Nelson Alvares will lead guided walks and sunrise meditation and Venessa Muller will  offer guided meditation.

People often yearn for an opportunity to recalibrate their lives and to spend some time in quiet reflection among like-minded people. The BRC provides such a refuge - where silence is a precious commodity. This weekend will be unstructured for you to do as much (or as little) reading, walking, meditating, relaxing and resting as you choose. Enjoy hiking and bird watching in 300 acres of beautiful rolling hills, parklands, indigenous valleys and forests. Savour our delicious vegetarian food, browse our well-stocked library, visit the stupa and the raked Zen sand gardens; walk the labyrinth; reflect on the 8 trees associated with the Buddha’s life, enlightenment and death in the beautiful Buddha Boma. Spend solitary time in our deer forest  and tune into just being in the present moment. Self retreating is an ideal opportunity to be in a gentle, sympathetic space where one can be still and get in touch with oneself and reflect on the things that crowd one’s life. Nelson Alvares will lead guided walks and sunrise meditation and Venessa Muller will  offer guided meditation.

People often yearn for an opportunity to recalibrate their lives and to spend some time in quiet reflection among like-minded people. The BRC provides such a refuge - where silence is a precious commodity. This weekend will be unstructured for you to do as much (or as little) reading, walking, meditating, relaxing and resting as you choose. Enjoy hiking and bird watching in 300 acres of beautiful rolling hills, parklands, indigenous valleys and forests. Savour our delicious vegetarian food, browse our well-stocked library, visit the stupa and the raked Zen sand gardens; walk the labyrinth; reflect on the 8 trees associated with the Buddha’s life, enlightenment and death in the beautiful Buddha Boma. Spend solitary time in our deer forest  and tune into just being in the present moment. Self retreating is an ideal opportunity to be in a gentle, sympathetic space where one can be still and get in touch with oneself and reflect on the things that crowd one’s life. Nelson Alvares will lead guided walks and sunrise meditation and Venessa Muller will  offer guided meditation.