with
Bonni Ross
Wangapeka Study & Retreat Centre
We will explore the boundless practices of Loving Kindness, Compassion, Empathetic Joy and Peace in this slightly unconventional retreat.
The unconventional part is a special invitation to babies and their families to come at the beginning so that we can enfold them into our circle of practice with love, caring, patience and delight welling up from a deep recognition that on this planet we all start out the same way. All are welcome on Sunday, December 4.
Then, the formal work will review the traditional forms of Brahma Viharas and The Four Limitless Meditations before we evolve the practice in an accessible, delectable fashion.
The supports of movement, working with colour and form and community circle sharing will help deepen our practice.
This will be a predominantly silent retreat.
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.
Bonni is one of the founders of the dharmasphere collective and one of the visionaries behind the innovative project ‘2020 A Year of Clear Vision’.
She is inspired by ‘ordinary’ people who demonstrate exceptional courage and compassion in the midst of great suffering. Somewhat unexpectedly, Bonni now finds herself living in Nelson, and is currently deeply engaged in studying Maoritanga.
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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