Doing a retreat is one of those things that most of us put in the too hard basket.  Lack of time, having too many other commitments, the cost, not knowing where to go, are all factors as to why we put it off.   I think a lot of students would like to know more about retreats and possibly feel it is something they are not ready for.

I want to share some experience about retreats because I have found retreating to be incredibly energising and can really help to develop meditative practice. (not that I am very good at it, however).   I have noticed retreating is not a common occurrence, even for students who have many years experience.  In our busy lives taking the time to retreat, even for just a weekend, can be difficult to arrange and yet there is so much to gain if we do.

A good place to start is accessing weekend workshops and day retreats which Buddha House provides.  These programs give you a real break from everyday activities, a chance to reflect and to relax.  Some of the things you will experience in retreat include not talking to others (at least for some of the time), being disciplined in attending sessions (even early morning) and watching your mind more closely (even in the breaks).  Group retreats are good in the beginning, because the energy of the group helps motivate you and you have support from others if you need it. 
Buddha House provides the opportunity to retreat - each year offering 2 live-in retreats (Easter and October long weekends) and 2 weekend day retreats.

Solitary retreats are a different experience and require more discipline and planning.  A great place to go into retreat is at our sister centre De Tong Ling on Kangaroo Island.  Buddha House accessed the wonderful facilities there at Easter this year for a group retreat.   In addition to the group retreat facilities, De Tong Ling has 5 retreat houses which can be used for solitary retreats by practising Buddhists.  The houses are comfortable and fully equipped.  Staff from the centre keep a check on retreaters and provide support when needed, although you really need to be self-reliant as they are not always there.  Hiring a retreat house for a weekend or even a week is a great opportunity. Being a Buddhist centre you will keep the 5 vows (avoiding killing, stealing, lying, sexual misconduct and intoxicants) and experience the pristine environment De Tong Ling is renowned for.  This environment is perfect for developing space in the mind.   We are fortunate to have such a facility nearby, as there are few places on the planet to compare with the facilities at De Tong Ling for retreating.

After reading this, I hope you will consider retreating as an important part of your spiritual path.   Going  into solitary retreat for several weeks, or even months or years is something the average person might think is beyond their capacity; however with preparation and support to do so, everyone can retreat at some time. If you would like to discuss retreats in more detail, I can be contacted through the Buddha House office.

Lyndy Abram
SPC Buddha House