How do we nourish happiness and wellbeing when confronted by the suffering of our precious Earth and its inhabitants? How can we support ourselves and others to work on behalf of the environment with joy, energy, compassion and love?

A retreat for environmentalists and lovers of the Earth. Based on the mindfulness practices of Zen master Thich Nhat Hanh and the Earth Holder Community, created by his students around the globe, this retreat will offer a chance to breathe deeply, rest and reflect on our inter-being with the natural world.

As a Sangha (spiritual community), we will enjoy deep connection to the Earth, its beauty and its support for all life; nourish ourselves through rest and mindful practice; explore how mindfulness practice can support us in an ongoing way as we navigate our lives; share our experiences, hopes and frustrations. Mindfulness will be the foundation of the retreat and practices such as sitting and walking meditation, eating mindfully in quiet and Dharma talks will be included.

This retreat is open to all and may be best suited to those with some prior experience of mindfulness who are active in environmental work and/or living sustainably. Please email us at peace@dharmagaia.org if you have any questions.

Caitlin Bush is a Dharma Teacher with the New Zealand Centre of Mindful Living. She is deeply inspired by the life and practice of Thich Nhat Hanh and by Sister Shalom.

PAYMENT DETAILS: RETREAT COST $165-$200 (SLIDING SCALE)

Account number 03 0458 0238459 000

Please make two separate payments (with reference) for the retreat cost and for Dana/gratitude for the teaching . In alignment with Buddhist principles of generosity, our teachers devote much of their time to study and practice. This supports the service they give without the request for fee payment. In this way no one is turned away due to the retreat cost. The teachers trust in the generosity of the participants to offer a contribution (Dana) in accordance with their means and desire to support the teachers.