with
Bonni Ross
Wangapeka Study & Retreat Centre
This is the second in a program of retreats in 2023/24 being offered by Bonni.
Open to All
This retreat will explore the principle that body and mind are not separate. If our bodies, including the senses through which we receive data, are agitated, shut down or in pain, it will be very difficult for our minds to settle into a state of durable clarity and peace. It is so important that our “daily life practice” includes do-able methods to support and enhance the qualities of relaxation and stimulation that we access in retreat. If not, we get the feeling that we are trying to move forward with one foot on the accelerator and one foot on the brake. This leads to frustration, and giving up — until the next retreat.
Relaxing and loosening movement, exploring and healing the physical senses in the beauty of Wangapeka’s pristine natural environment — does that sound do-able? Supported by the Meditation on Peace (crafted by Namgyal Rinpoche) this mostly silent retreat week will establish some simple habits to weave into our daily lives!
Participants should be in reasonably good physical and mental health to enjoy the challenges, inner and outer, of life at Wangapeka.
Bonni Ross has taught extensively at the Wangapeka over the last 30 years and is a deeply respected ‘Centre Elder’. She guides individuals in developing focused and skillful meditation and leads retreats for depth unfoldment.
Bonni began exploring the teachings of liberation in the early sixties. In the mid 70’s she met her principal teacher, Venerable Namgyal Rinpoche, whose direct, eclectic teaching and example are central to her life. Bonni teaches from a deep wealth of meditative experience. She communicates with sensitivity, creativity and humour in a way that resonates with each individual present.
The retreat takes place on the beautiful Wangapeka whenua nestled in stunning native forests with expansive views down the Wangapeka valley. The land itself provides a healing sanctuary surrounded by mature trees and offering the perfect environment for reflection and reconnection with nature.
Accommodation is included in the price of the retreat, with all rooms being comfortable and well-appointed with single beds and electric heating. Shared bathroom facilities are conveniently located close to all rooms.
All meals are included in this retreat to support the your well-being and focus. Our kitchen team prepares nourishing vegetarian food to sustain and delight you throughout your stay. Specific dietary requirements can be accommodated and self-catering is also possible if you prefer to bring and prepare your own food.
This teaching room is beautifully crafted and has been used for a wide variety of teaching for over 20 years. It has a wooden parquet floor and a pot belly stove to keep away winter chills. Set amongst beautiful mature trees, it offers a charming view looking down the Wangapeka valley, creating an inspiring environment for movement and meditation practices.
The original building at Wangapeka, the Main Hall serves as the heart of community life with its combined living and dining room, library, and welcoming wood burner. Tea, coffee, and snacks are freely available here throughout your stay. Whether you choose to relax in the cosy interior or step out onto the porch to enjoy the expansive views, this space invites connection and contemplation. The hall also houses the kitchen, bathroom facilities, and laundry for your convenience.
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