Meditation, Nature, Community
Come spend a week simply devoted to “practicing presence” – being aware, open and grounded in the moment. Star Island is ideally conducive to this fundamental spiritual practice. The beauty of nature here has a way of awakening the senses and drawing out our contemplative potential. And the simple way of life, away from the mainland, makes it is easier to let go of our usual preoccupations.
We will spend each morning together in a traditional silent retreat mode, following a formal schedule of sitting and walking meditation sessions. Then, afternoon is devoted to solitary nature-contemplation and free time. Evenings will center on various planned activities, such as chapel, small group discussion, a theme talk or a bonfire. Finally we will end the day with a return to sharing silent contemplation.
This retreat is suitable for beginning and experienced meditators, from both Eastern and Western faith perspectives. The meditation sessions are compatible with a variety of forms, such as Buddhist calm-abiding/insight/Zen meditation, Christian centering prayer, and many other simple “be-here-now” styles.