RETREAT: Open the Heart & Still the Mind – The Joy & Wisdom of Embodied, Heartfelt Presence

This popular, Easter long-weekend Open the Heart and Still the Mind Compassion Retreat with clinical psychologist Sue Cooper, is held in Noble Silence and is offered either as a 4 night retreat or as an extended 7 night retreat. Inspired by wisdom teachings, mindfulness, metta & compassion practices of the Dharma and transformative insights from Buddhist and western psychology, we will establish a safe home within through calming the nervous system and integrating body, heart and mind. As we learn to listen and connect more compassionately with ourselves, we will discover that the containment of shared, nourishing silence allows us to find the courage to honour and embody our authentic, heartfelt presence with greater confidence, clarity and joy.

As we embrace the joys and the sorrows of life with a greater understanding of impermanence, we move beyond fear, shame and debilitating self-doubt. After establishing some stillness and calm in the mind and the heart, we will explore the Brahma viharas (the four divine abodes/ immeasurables) to cultivate greater kindness, courage and compassion for ourselves and others. These compassion practices bring more appreciative joy, equanimity and wisdom into our lives, strengthening our capacity for more open-hearted presence and healthier boundaries in our relationships. This silent retreat, suitable for beginners & experienced practitioners, includes inspiring teachings, guided & silent meditations, poetry, daily qigong and time to walk, rest and replenish. Short, individual sessions with Sue are offered to deepen our insight and sense of well-being. There will be relaxing massages and mindful movement available as optional extras (the cost of which to be confirmed), to support our embodied experience.

Please note: There is a teacher's fee for this retreat, which is offered on a sliding scale, with reductions and payment plans on request.

A 30-50 minute pre-retreat individual session via Zoom/Whatsapp is required for newcomers or if you have not attended one of Sue’s residential retreats before. This provides greater containment and enhances and deepens the silent retreat experience for yourself and for the group. The fee for this will be the 30-50 minute medical aid rate and will be reduced if you are not on medical aid. Please contact Sue on sue.stillmind@gmail.com to arrange a time.

CPD accreditation for psychologists and other HPCSA (or equivalent) registered professionals will be offered, with an annual admin fee tbc.

Bookings: bookings@brcixopo.co.za (and cc admin@stillmindretreats.com) and please see here for pricing information for the accommodation, which is booked directly with the BRC.

Teacher Dana guideline to follow.