Listen to the Heart

Our lives are full of noise: messages, opinions, expectations, and the constant chatter of our own minds. But beneath all that noise, what might we hear?

Together, we will slow down and explore the practice of deep listening: listening to our bodies, our hearts, the natural world, and the stillness within.

Set in the grounds of Gold Coast Dharma Realm, this retreat will offer space to meditate, walk in nature, reflect together, and explore practical Buddhist teachings that can help us meet our lives with greater awareness and care.

We will also learn from Guan Yin Bodhisattva, the embodiment of compassion and deep listening in the Buddhist tradition. Guan Yin listens deeply to the cries of the world and responds with wisdom and compassion. Through her practice, we will explore how we too can listen more deeply to ourselves, to one another, and to the world around us, and cultivate qualities of kindness, compassion, joy, and equanimity.

A typical day centres on the practice of reciting the name of Guan Yin Bodhisattva, Namo Guan Shr Yin Pu Sa, together as a group. The recitation is used as a form of meditation, helping us to settle the mind and connect with the qualities of compassion embodied by Guan Yin. The day also includes talks on core Buddhist teachings, suitable both for those familiar with Buddhism and those with no prior background.

Periods of sitting meditation are balanced with walking meditation, recitation, and time on the monastery grounds.

No previous experience with Buddhism or meditation is needed.