RETREAT: Listening with a Kind and Compassionate Heart

This long-weekend silent Open the Heart and Still the Mind Compassion retreat will draw on the wisdom of Buddhist psychology and the inspiring teachings and practices of Kuan Yin, the bodhisattva of compassion, who “Listens to the cries of the world at ease." After establishing a calm and grounded body, heart and mind, we will focus on the practice of loving-kindness (metta) meditation and the deepening of compassionate wisdom. These practices strengthen our boundaries and provide us with a secure foundation of courage and trust.

In a contained and nurturing atmosphere of contemplative silence, we will learn how to transform the self-critical and judgmental inner voices, so that we can end the habitual cycle of self-abandonment. As we discover how to internalise the archetypal good-enough mother, represented by Kuan Yin, we will develop the courage and trust which allow us to honour our vulnerability without fear or shame. When we can embrace our humanness with kindness and compassion, we can live more authentically, so that healing and awakening can occur.

This retreat which starts at midday on Thursday 9th August, includes guided sitting and walking meditations, short individual sessions with Sue and daily sessions of qigong (chi kung) movement meditation to enhance the integration of body, heart and mind. In addition to the optional relaxing yoga sessions and aromatherapy massages, which will enhance our embodied awareness, there will be time for restorative rest and silent walks in the beautiful surroundings of the Stellenbosch and Helderberg mountain ranges, amidst fynbos and vineyards. Mont Fleur’s famously delicious vegetarian and vegan food will be savoured in silence, as part of our integrated practice.

A once-off, pre-retreat individual session is required if you haven't yet had one with Sue, to provide greater containment. This enhances and deepens the silent retreat experience for yourself and for the group. The additional session fee of R750 is fully covered by Medical Aid or will be reduced if necessary, if you do not have cover.

CPD accreditation for psychologists and other HPCSA registered professionals: 26 General CEUs have been granted.

Please Note: To receive CPD points and your certificate(s) this year, there is an annual admin fee of R150 - thank you.