Meditation Retreats
We are delighted to invite you to our transformative Silent Meditation Retreats at Lake Monastery. Amidst the tranquil surroundings of nature, the retreats offer a sanctuary for you to reconnect with your inner self and cultivate mindfulness through guided, seated, chanting and walking-based meditation practices.
Learn from Buddhist Monks
During this retreat, you will embark on a journey of self-discovery and stillness, guided by experienced Buddhist monks.
Inner Calm
Learn to quiet the mind, letting go of distracting thoughts and cultivating a sense of inner calm. This practice can reduce stress &anxiety and promote emotional well-being.
Mindful Awareness
Develop an enhanced ability to observe your thoughts, emotions, and sensations without judgment. This heightened self-awareness can lead to greater clarity, improved decision-making, and enriched relationships.
Introspection
The silence and solitude of the retreat provide an opportunity for self-reflection. By exploring your inner landscape, you may gain profound insights, a deeper understanding of yourself, and clarity regarding your life’s path.
Food (for thought)
Incorporating food into mindfulness practice involves savoring each bite, appreciating flavors, textures, and sensations. By eating slowly, mindfully, and with gratitude.
Connection with Nature:
Lake Monastery’s natural beauty provides a nurturing backdrop for your meditation practice. The serene surroundings and fresh air help create an environment conducive to inner peace and harmony.
FAQs
The retreat will take place at Lake Monastery. 1145 Roseville Rd, Cambridge ON. Depending on the weather, meditation will be done both indoors and outdoors.
No, the retreat is non-residential as we do not have facilities to accommodate guests. However, it is recommended to stay away from your daily environment, and stay in a calm, secluded environment. If you need help finding accommodation around Cambridge, please contact the retreat coordinator.
In alignment with Buddhist principles, teachings are offered as acts of compassion without expectation of reciprocity.
For meals and snacks there is a charge of $50 per day ($150 for three days)
Voluntary donations towards monastery upkeep are gratefully accepted. If financial considerations pose a challenge, please inform us. We aim to ensure that finances do not hinder anyone’s ability to participate.
Breakfast and Lunch will be served. There will be snacks, coffee & tea during the short breaks as well. Please let us know of your dietary restrictions.
You can e-transfer to Waterloo Wellington Buddhist Monastery & Meditation Center (WWBMMC) at [email protected] you can pay by cash or card at the monastery.
While it is possible, we strongly recommend you to be present on day 1, as it will set the tone for the other two days
We have cushions & chairs at the temple, however you can bring your yoga mats, umbrellas, etc.
Dress conservatively,preferably in light colors, as the lake monastery is also a house of worship. For walking & Outdoor sessions during winter bring appropriate warm clothing.
Summer: We will start the day at 7:30am with breakfast, Meditation starts at 8:15am and will go on till 7:30pm. On the last day the program will end at 4:00pm
Winter: We will start the day at 8:00am with breakfast, Meditation starts at 8:30am and will go on till 5:30pm. On the last day the program will end at 3:00pm
While you can use it for an emergency, the idea of the silent meditation retreat is to unplug yourself from devices. You can provide the Monastery landline as an emergency contact number (519) 267-0397.
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Yes, parking is available at the monastery, when you park, please be mindful of turtles who might crawl under your vehicles. As the monastery property is a ecologically sensitive area and this is the turtle nesting season.
While you can bring your friends & partners the whole idea is to find seclusion in silence. Which is the proven tool for self-reflection.
Monastery indoors are not pet friendly, and it would be ideal if you do not have any responsibilities to attend to during the program.
Rev Kalubowila Ananda, a Buddhist monk of Thervada tradition, originally from Sri Lanka will be conducting the sessions.
Summer retreats (2024): Jun 14-16 |Aug 3-5 | Aug 31-Sep 2
Winter retreats (2024): Jan 20-21 | Feb 17-18 | Mar 16-17
Spiritual Thursdays
Join our weekly drop-in meditation & Yoga classes on Thursdays.
5:30-6:30 pm: yoga with Ms. Hui Lin, Ms. Shawna,Ms.Noorie and Mr. Nihal.
6:45-7:45 pm: Guided meditation class led by Rev. Ananda
Enjoy the sunset over the lake with Tea and snacks!
Classes are offered free of charge, voluntary donations are welcome!
Thursday Meditation
May all beings be peaceful! ~ “Sabbe Satta BhavantuSukhitatta”
Lake Monastery, Cambridge