Present in the Heart: Day Long Retreat
Open to the sweetness of a present heart in this early summer retreat.
With guided instruction, Buddhist teachings, periods of sitting and walking meditation and nature walking, as well as guided reflections/contemplation and group council, this day of practice gives us time and space to unplug.
Saturday, June 23
9 – 4:30 pm
$125, includes lunch
*Please contact us if you require financial assistance; all are welcome to attend.
Optional Friday Night Introduction:
For those travelling from out of town and who wish to arrive Friday night, we will be hosting an optional Friday night introduction to this retreat from 7:15 – 8:30 pm at no extra cost. To arrive relaxed on Saturday we do recommend coming a day earlier. See list below for local accommodations.
Present in the Heart Program:
In the Zen tradition a silent day long is called Zazenkai, which literally means “to come together for mediation.” Taking one day for inward reflection and calmness, having a space to be in a community of practice both with fellow practitioners and the natural world, and intentionally choosing to let go for a day is a true blessing. For some the idea of silence brings to mind thoughts of “how is this possible?”, yet most everyone who takes the plunge leaves refreshed, renewed, and re-energized.
As more space is created within our contemplation, more time will be spent deepening our shamatha (focused attention+ concentration) practice, as well as a time to lean into our inner attunement with the heart of compassion. Sarana Springs as a refuge and sanctuary that brings a beauty and sweetness to our outer landscape as we learn to find peace with our inner one.
Retreat Location at Sarana Springs near Chatsworth, Ontario.
Sarana Springs is approximately a 2.5 hour drive from Toronto, north of Markdale and south of Owen Sound, located on 171 acres of sprawling wilderness, wetland, and meadow. Scroll down for local where to stay options.
Contact Maxine Iharosy at info@saranainstitute.org or 519.270.7450 with any questions.
Where to Stay:
We encourage you to arrive Friday night and stay at local B & B or camp with us. You can make this a one-day dive or a weekend retreat.
On site:
Payment made by cash or cheque the day of to Angie Blake
- Tenting: $20 per night / $25 per night for 2 people in 1 tent
- Off Grid Retreat Cabins: Please contact us to check availability. $50 per night. Bring your own bedding.
Off site:
- Camp on site for $25 nightly.
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Solstice B &B $85-$125 night. Call 519-371-1440
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Sunset Country B & B (519) 371-4559
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Comfort Inn – 20 minutes away
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Quality Inn – 20 minutes away
Planning your trip:
- Plan to arrive by 8:45, so you are ready for the start of the program at 9 AM sharp.
- Please bring your own lunch.
Further Info:
- Contact us by email, info@saranainstitute.org
- or Phone Maxine Iharosy, 519 270 7450
ABOUT (REV.) ANDREW BLAKE
(Rev.) Andrew has been studying, practicing and teaching meditation for over 30 years now. Meeting his root teacher in his early 20’s, Ven. Dhyani Ywahoo, he began to deepen his passion and commitment to integrate these ancient practices into his life and into his work. Working as a psychotherapist, Buddhist chaplain, and a meditation teacher allows him to move from private practice with clients, to teaching his Mindfulness + Compassion Training program for professionals at SickKids Hospital, to guiding retreats with same presence and intention. Today, whatever “hat” he is wearing, his greatest joy is the benefit that grows within from our shared community practice and our willingness to reach out into the world that so needs our caring by evoking compassion.