We know from ancient wisdom and modern psychology that meditation brings many benefits for our mental and physical wellbeing. It can reduce worry and pain, and improve calmness, focus, sleep, relationships and life satisfaction. The more time we spend meditating, and the more skilled we become, the greater the benefits.

So take a restorative break from your daily life, meet other meditators, and strengthen your practice at this small-group Sunday retreat. Everyone is welcome, whatever their level of meditation experience or preferred style. The retreat is beginner-friendly, and our approach is secular (meaning non-religious) which makes room for diverse beliefs.

The programme

We will begin with introductions, followed by a guided meditation that covers the core skills of both sitting and walking meditation. For the rest of the day, the meditation will be unguided apart from occasional bells to announce breaks, and to remind you to alternate between sitting and walking (if that's what you choose to do).

To help quieten the mind, many participants prefer not to talk again until the discussion circle at the end of the retreat. However some people like to chat with others during the breaks, and there is space allocated for this. The retreat leaders are always available for quiet conversations if you need support with your practice.

The venue

The Innermost Gardens hall is nestled between the central city suburb of Mount Victoria and the green town belt. This provides a peaceful nature-rich setting for the retreat, surrounded by community gardens to enjoy during the breaks or walking meditation.

There will be hot drinks and snacks available throughout the day. For lunch the participants bring a plate of vegetarian food to share. The venue has a full kitchen including cutlery, plates, bowls, fridge, stove, and a microwave.

The leaders

Bryan Royds is an adult educator and registered counsellor with a passion for wellbeing science and leadership development. He has been meditating and teaching meditation skills in groups for many years, including the well-researched methods of Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR).

Sarah Jane Barnett is a writer and creative writing teacher at Massey University. She has been a Buddhist for ten years, practicing mostly Vipassana meditation. She also co-facilitates a meditation group for people who practice Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (an evidence-based modern psychotherapy and wellbeing method).

The registration fee is only $40 for waged and $20 for unwaged, fully refundable until one day prior.

Contact the host of One Day Secular Meditation Retreat in Wellington