Meditation foundations

"I can't meditate. My mind won't stop."

If you've ever said this to yourself, you're not alone and you're not doing it wrong. Meditation isn't about emptying your mind or achieving some blissed-out state. It's about showing up, sitting with what is and training your attention. And yes, it's hard. That's the point.

This full-day escape strips away the mysticism and gives you practical tools to actually start meditating. We'll explore multiple meditation techniques throughout the day: breath awareness, body scan, visualisation, moving meditation and the my own practice, effortless meditation. With so many different kinds, you can discover what resonates with you.

You'll learn why your mind wanders (spoiler: that's what minds do), how to work with discomfort instead of fighting it and most importantly, how to build a meditation practice that fits into your real life. There's no need to sit for an hour nor to buy yourself a fancy cushion. You'll just need your breath and a willingness to begin.

What's included:

• gentle morning flow

• introduction to meditation

• multiple meditation techniques

• practical tools for building a home practice

• morning and afternoon tea

• nourishing plant-based lunch

*The topic will remain the same but the specifics of this day are subject to change.

Suitable for: Complete beginners and anyone who's tried meditation but struggled to maintain a practice. If you've ever thought "meditation isn't for me," this day will change your mind.

What to bring: Your mat, water bottle, comfortable loose clothing and any props that help you sit comfortably.

Location:

We'll be spending the day at Kurrajong Trails and Cottages, nestled on 100 acres in the rugged Hawkesbury sandstone ridges at the foothills of the Blue Mountains. Set inside the Wollemi National Park and overlooking Wheeny Creek, the property offers a peaceful escape from the everyday.

Our yoga space is filled with natural light and temperature controlled for your comfort. Depending on the weather, we may take advantage of the beautiful outdoor spaces, and there are plenty of serene spots to relax in during breaks as you take in views of the wetlands and surrounding landscape.