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Detailed List of Retreats

Under The Rose-Apple Tree: A weekend of meditation practice

Teacher: Stephen Coan
Cost: 2 days accommodation + R350 surcharge
Dates: Friday 22 October 2021 - Sunday 24 October 2021

stephen coan oct2019The teachings of the Buddha sprang from his enlightenment experience under the bodhi tree. The key to this final awakening, according to the Buddha, was his recollection of a childhood experience that occurred when, on a hot day, “I was sitting in the cool shade of a rose-apple tree” and, quite naturally, he entered a meditative state. “Following on that memory came the realization that: ‘This is indeed the path to enlightenment’.” While the Buddha’s enlightenment can be difficult to comprehend, this earlier experience is more accessible, possibly even familiar to us. Re-connect with and renew that experience in a Zen-style retreat supported by a programme of sitting and walking meditation. There will also be time to enjoy the beautiful grounds of the centre - and to sit under trees. Please note: apart from an introductory talk and a discussion period the retreat will be held in Noble Silence.

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Stephen Coan has been involved with Buddhism for over three decades. Inspired and informed by the Theravada and Zen Buddhist traditions his retreats place an emphasis on the centrality of practice in living a skilful and enlightened life, and the profound benefits of doing nothing, seriously. He draws on his own life experience of moving between being and doing as a film and theatre director, writer, journalist, and poet.