Melbourne Buddhist Centre
Going on Retreat
What is a Retreat?
A Buddhist retreat gives you a chance to put aside the concerns and demands of your normal routine. By getting away from the noise and clutter of everyday life, you can begin to relax and open up.
Many people who go on Buddhist retreats feel more grounded, calmer and in touch with themselves. Those who go on retreat regularly find these qualities pervading the rest of their lives, and can live more and more from their human potential.
Going on retreat gives you the opportunity to share time and inspiration with like-minded people from all walks of life.
But retreats are not holidays. They are an opportunity to deepen your awareness of yourself, other people, and the world around you. They give you space to clarify what is essential in your life. As such, a retreat can be a challenging, life changing experience.
The daily programmes vary depending on what type of retreat you book. Most retreats include meditation, some periods of silence, and activities such as talks, workshops and group discussion. They also have short work activities, for example washing up or helping prepare a meal, and some free time.
Meals are vegetarian and cooked communally. All that you need to bring is your own sleeping gear, clothes and toiletries.
If you haven't been on a retreat with us before, we encourage you to contact us with any questions you may have.
Next retreats are in June 2008: