A 3-Day Meditation, Self Enquiry and Advaita Vedanta Retreat
in Stoud just outside of Newcastle, January, 1st, 2nd, 3rd 2027
Join us for three unhurried days exploring Silent Meditation, Self-Enquiry and Yogic Philosophy at the beautiful Old Monastery in Stroud, just outside Newcastle.
There will also be plenty of time to rest, walk, read, enjoy the peaceful surroundings and share simple vegetarian meals together.
1, 2 & 3 January 2027
The Old Monastery, Stroud NSW
$350 all-inclusive
No previous experience of meditation or yogic philosophy is necessary.
Silent Meditation, Self-Inquiry, and Yogic Philisophy
Join us at Stroud Monastery for a peaceful, unhurried retreat devoted to Silent Meditation and Self-Enquiry, together with talks and discussions exploring the spiritual philosophy of Advaita Vedanta. Through meditation, contemplation and self enquiry, (who am I? meditation) we will explore timeless spiritual questions concerning the mind, the nature of the Self, awareness, stillness and our deeper relationship with life.
A Space for Simply Being
Stillness, Solitude, and Connection
This retreat offers a spacious rhythm of silence, solitude and time together. There will be time to meditate, enquire, read, walk, rest or simply do nothing, as well as time for conversation, shared meals and the natural companionship that arises from spending a few unhurried days together.
Come with no expectations. The monastery offers a rare opportunity to step away from our usual routines—to become quiet, rest deeply, meditate and enquire, enjoy one another’s company, and simply allow life to be exactly as it is.
The Heart of the 2027 Meditation Retreat
Silent Meditation, Self-Enquiry and Advaita Vedanta
At the heart of our time together will be the simple, direct exploration of our inner nature.
Through self-enquiry, silent meditation, contemplation and dialogue, we will explore the nature of mind, awareness and the sense of “I”, and become aquainted the stillness and presence that remain ever-present as the changeless background that is both within and beyond the changing phenomena of life in the world of time and space.
A Personal Invitation
This retreat is an invitation to explore the timeless teachings of Advaita Vedanta, with particular emphasis on Silent Meditation, Self-enquiry, Surrender to God and Advaita Vedanta Study as taught by Sri Ramana Maharshi. Through silence, meditation, contemplation and dialogue, we will turn towards the fundamental question, “Who am I?” turning attention towards the source of the sense of “I” and resting in the stillness of our true nature.
We will come together in the spirit of enquiry, allowing periods of silence, contemplation, dialogue and simple communal living to form the rhythm of our days.
Location: The Old Monastery, 47 St Clairs Rd, Stroud NSW 2425
Dates: January 1, 2 & 3, 2027 (Friday–Sunday)
Full Retreat Cost: $350
Self-Inquiry
Exploring the Source of "I Am"
Self-inquiry, or atma vichara, invites you to turn your attention inward and directly examine the source of the "I" thought—the sense of "I am." Inspired by the teachings of Ramana Maharshi and the simplicity of Zen Buddhism, this practice is a journey into the heart of awareness itself.
Rather than analyzing thoughts or identifying with labels, self-inquiry encourages you to quietly ask, "Who am I?" or "What is the source of this sense of I?" As you sit with these questions, the mind softens, and deeper layers of presence and clarity emerge. This is not about finding an answer but resting in the stillness and truth that lies beyond thought.
Accessible to both beginners and seasoned practitioners, self-inquiry is a doorway to the essence of who we truly are.
Silent Meditation
Meditation Without a Goal
During the retreat we will spend time simply sitting together in silence. There is nothing in particular to achieve, no special state to enter, and no requirement that the mind should become quiet.
Inspired by the direct approach of Jean Klein, meditation is not treated as something we do in order to arrive somewhere else. Thoughts may come and go, the body may become quiet or restless, sounds may arise and disappear. Nothing needs to be excluded.
Rather than striving for silence, we can discover the stillness that does not depend upon the mind being still. Meditation becomes an open listening—a resting without expectation in what is already here.
Surrender to What Is
“His is the burden.” — Sri Ramana Maharshi
Alongside self-enquiry, Ramana Maharshi taught surrender as a direct path to the Self. Rather than carrying the weight of life as though everything depended upon us, surrender places the burden back into the hands of the Higher Power.
“Leave everything entirely to Him. His is the burden: you have no longer any cares. All your cares are His. Such is surrender.”
During the retreat we will spend time with this teaching through meditation, contemplation and prayer, allowing Ramana’s words to speak for themselves.
Dialogue & Discussions: The Living Teachings of Advaita Vedanta
Guided by the Teachings of Sri Ramana Maharshi
Our Yogic Talks on Advaita Vedanta offer an invitation to explore the timeless wisdom of non-duality and the deeper nature of the Self. Drawing from the teachings of Sri Ramana Maharshi, and the great Vedantic tradition, these talks bring ancient insights into the context of everyday life.
Through reflection, inquiry, meditation, and yogic understanding, we explore the essential teaching of Advaita: that beneath the changing modes of being reflected within the body and mind lives an ocean of Oneness an infinite awareness, which is whole, trancendental, peaceful, and ever-present.
These talks are designed to be an opportunity not merely to study philosophy, but to turn inward, question deeply, and discover how Vedantic wisdom can illuminate the way we live, relate, and perceive the world.
Resonance Circle
Connecting to Presence and Flow
The Resonance Circle is a powerful practice that helps deepen your connection with yourself, others, and the shared energy that unites us. Sitting together in a circle, participants close their eyes and tune into their own body and the subtle sensations around them. After sharing reflections, the group joins hands, allowing the physical connection to deepen the sense of presence and unity.
This simple yet profound practice invites relaxation, heightened awareness, and a deeper sense of connection. Returning to the Resonance Circle throughout the retreat offers a grounding way to attune to your energy, emotions, and the shared field of life’s flow.
Meditation in Motion
Guided by Life’s Rhythm
Spontaneous Movement is an invitation to be moved by the current of life energy flowing within and around you. It’s a practice of allowing motion to arise naturally, without effort or control—movement that emerges from presence and the stillness at your core.
In this meditation in motion, you’ll explore dancing in stillness, moving with grace, and finding harmony with the rhythm of life itself. Sometimes gentle and flowing, sometimes dynamic and unpredictable, this practice awakens the body, quiets the mind, and connects you to the essence of life’s vibrant energy.
Through Spontaneous Movement, we discover the joy of being fully present, expressing ourselves authentically, and aligning with the natural rhythm of existence. It’s a transformative journey into freedom, flow, and the aliveness of the moment.
Nourishing Meals, Shared Community
Cooking, Eating, and Connecting Together
At this retreat, meals are not just about nourishment—they’re a part of the experience. We’ll prepare and enjoy simple, wholesome vegetarian meals together as a community. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner will be crafted with care, creating a space for connection and mindfulness.
Everyone is invited to contribute, whether it’s chopping vegetables, setting the table, or washing dishes. Sharing these responsibilities brings a sense of camaraderie and belonging while easing the workload for all. You’re also welcome to bring vegetarian ingredients or a prepared dish to share, though it’s entirely optional.
Cooking and eating together becomes a meditation in itself—a chance to be present, to connect with others, and to nourish both body and spirit. It’s a joyful, grounding part of the retreat that brings us closer to ourselves and each other.
The Old Monastery: A Place of Profound Sacredness & Deep Stillness
Nestled in the bushland of Stroud, New South Wales, the Franciscan Mudbrick Monastery offers a beautiful setting for stillness and enquiry. With its peaceful chapel, simple rooms and quiet surroundings, the monastery invites us to slow down, rest, and enjoy the rare luxury of having nowhere else to be.
Take a Tour of the Monastery
Step Into the Tranquility of the Mudbrick Monastery
Experience the serene beauty of the Franciscan Mudbrick Monastery in Stroud. Nestled in lush bushland, this peaceful retreat center offers a perfect sanctuary for reflection, connection, and renewal.
Your Retreat Facilitator
Meditation, Self-Enquiry and the Exploration of Stillness
David Rivers is a meditation and non-duality teacher and the author of The Dance of Stillness, a book born from his own exploration of meditation, spiritual awakening and the deeper nature of the Self.
His approach draws on more than thirty years of spiritual practice and teaching, including meditation, Self-Enquiry and the study of Advaita Vedanta and the wider non-dual tradition. With a particular appreciation for the teachings of Sri Ramana Maharshi, David offers the retreat in a spirit of openness and shared enquiry, inviting each person to explore these teachings through their own direct experience.
Book Your Place Today
An invitation to begin the New Year in stillness, enquiry and contemplation.
Details:
Location: The Old Monastery, 47 St Clairs Rd, Stroud NSW 2425
Dates: January 1, 2 & 3, 2027 (Friday–Sunday)
Retreat: $350
The retreat includes simple accommodation at the monastery and shared vegetarian provisions for our meals together.
Places are limited, allowing us to keep the retreat small, quiet and personal.
Click below to reserve your place at Stroud Monastery.
Get in Touch
Have Questions or Ready to Join Us?
We’d love to hear from you! Whether you have questions about the retreat, need more details, or are ready to reserve your place, feel free to reach out. Simply fill out the form below, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.
This retreat is about creating a meaningful and transformative experience, and we’re here to help make it accessible for you. Let us know how we can assist!