YAR: Embracing Life
A toolkit for living with Wisdom and Compassion
with
Daniel Burgess-Milne, Mark Schrader & Kath Mitchell
Wangapeka Study & Retreat Centre
YAR provides the opportunity for young adults (18-35) to come together to explore the art of meditation, to experience a retreat environment at an affordable price, and to build connections and community amongst young people with wholesome aspirations in Aotearoa.
Explorations will include meditation, conscious dance, group processes, explorative art and nature connection. There will be periods of silence and reflection to allow you to connect with your own inner wisdom. Guidance will be available for those who are interested in learning to meditate, as well as for those who wish to develop their meditation practice.
The Wangapeka Study and Retreat Centre provides a wilderness environment of mountains, trees and river; an idyllic container for experiencing inner depth and expansiveness. We will eat from the organic garden, walk the mountain paths and take time to connect with the mana whenua of the local environment.
In order to make the course as financially accessible as possible, there is an element of Dana (kōha) built into the daily structure. This contribution will involve a group work project to enhance and support the beautiful land and buildings of the Wangapeka centre. This reduces the financial cost for accessing the centre for younger participants.
As well, if cost is a barrier, we encourage you to apply for support. Funds have been donated to Wangapeka to offer support for people who cannot afford the retreat but want to attend; this is called ‘Sangha Support’ and operates like a scholarship. To apply, contact the Wangapeka Office Caretaker – [email protected].
Costs
Cost: $275.
This includes food, accommodation, and resources. The overall cost is subsidised through the work exchange aspect of the course.
In the Buddhist spirit of dana, the teachings are offered freely by facilitators. Dana translates as ‘generosity’ – an act that empowers giver and receiver – and is at the core of everything that happens at the Wangapeka Study and Retreat Centre. You will need to bring cash to make this offering.
Daniel Burgess-Milne has been studying Buddhadharma since 2012 and has received teachings from various teachers including Tarchin Hearn, Bonni Ross and Lama Mark Webber. He has been both a participant and facilitator of Young Adult’s Retreats and has a background working in mental health with youth. Dan has a passion for understanding insight through a contemporary lens, and finding new concepts and methods for exploring timeless wisdom in a modern world.
Mark has appreciated co-facilitating Community Courses at Wangapeka Study and Retreat Centre, the introductory meditation retreats – Beginning Now & Don’t Just do Something-Sit There, and the Transforming our Emotions course. He has an extensive background in meditation and has had a regular daily practice for many years. Mark has a respectful style of teaching that encourages each person to touch into their own inherent wisdom. He teaches with humour and kindness. He began working in the field of Mental Health about 20 years ago and currently works as a counsellor in Nelson.
Kath completed her first meditation retreat with Tarchin Hearn in 1989. She has studied with Bonni Ross for over twenty five years and continues to cherish this precious opportunity. Kath and her husband Mark share a deep commitment in the Dharma and enjoy practicing and teaching together. Kath teaches meditation in a collaborative style. She offers courses and retreats regularly at Wangapeka and in Nelson. She loves to practice Dharma in community because the wisdom of the group is a powerful and beautiful path to transformation; and that is always a joy to witness and experience together!
The Wangapeka Retreat Experience
Whenua Land
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.
Kainga Accommodation
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.
Kai Food
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.
Whare Wānanga Teaching Space
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.
Whare kai Main Hall
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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