Meditation and ecology: cultivating serenity in a time of ecological crisis
How to change the way we look at the world by developing active hope: a meditative approach to ecological issues. Our winter meditation retreat will be a valuable opportunity for reflection and renewal at the winter solstice.
Join us for a few days of mindfulness meditation, with attention, relaxation and celebration.
It’s a great way to start the New Year.
We’ll celebrate New Year’s Eve with a festive dinner and a “Wishes for the World” circle.
The retreat is open to beginners and those who wish to deepen or reconnect with the practice of meditation.
Dealing with eco-anxiety
This week-long retreat, based on sitting meditation, will be an opportunity to take an active part in healing the world.
As we suffer deeply from the serious damage done to nature and Mother Earth, we find ourselves feeling guilty, angry or in denial. However, we have other options. Drawing on Buddhism and psychology, we can discover our ecological unconscious.
At this retreat we will draw inspiration from the work of Buddhist and eco-philosopher Joanna Macy to rediscover our individual and group power needed to bring about a “the great turning”.
Programme
Morning
We will develop mindfulness through seated meditation in the practice room and walking meditation on the castle grounds. A progression of different meditation techniques will be introduced over the week to train us in increasing our courage, confidence and gentleness.
Afternoon
Group work: workshops on the theme of the 4 stages of Joanna Macy’s “spiral of the work that reconnects”.
These will take place in a safe environment in which people can trust themselves and others.
Daily schedule
7:00 to 8:00 a.m. – Sittings meditation and body gentle exercises (Lu Jong)
8:00 a.m. – Breakfast
9:15 to 11:00 a.m. – Sitting meditation and exercises
11:00 to 11:15 a.m. – Break
11:15 to 12:h30 – Walking meditation and meditation teachings
12:30 – Lunch
1:30 to 2:30 p.m. – Community work
2:30 to 3:30 p.m. – Free time
3:30 to 4:00 p.m. – Tea break
4:00 to 6:30 p.m. – “Work that connects” workshop
7:00 p.m. – Dinner
8:15 p.m. – Presentations and various activities
Practical aspects
Arrival day: Tuesday, 26 December.
Introductory talk at 8 p.m. You are invited to arrive at 4 p.m. to check in and settle into your room. Dinner is served at 7 pm.
End of programme: Tuesday 2 January.
Closing circle in the evening.
Departure day: Wednesday 3 January.
No programme. You are welcome to stay for breakfast.
Programme price: €335
This programme is taught in French and will be translated into English.
Illustration by Gendun Tenzin
