Retreating in a Troubled World.
Last evening, while sitting in the Well at Temenos, I was reminded of the inner qualities we need to nurture and retain especially when we are called upon to navigate troubled times. For centuries men and women have honoured this need by retreating either into a desert place or mountaintop or a place of retreat where solitude and silence provide a container for a time of healing.
Often essential to a process of unwinding, is rest. Given the current endless barrage of news and social media, much of it biased in one way or another and frequently fake, it is a balm for the mind and spirit to quieten down and breathe deeply. Enjoying the stillness of a hermit night at home or going on a long walk within solitude or treating oneself to a formal retreat can restore level –headedness and calm and thus initiate a sense of wellbeing.
Sometimes, upon finding a place of retreat and rest, it is important to quietly acknowledge what one has been experiencing in the busy flow of everyday life. Many of us may be feeling overwhelmed, frustrated and confused. Taking time out to gaze upon one’s inner life with ‘soft eyes’ is a great and worthy art, and a fine definition for a Retreat. A time of non-judgement, self-compassion and gentle self-care. Several retreats, including Temenos, also offer gentle, non- directive soul companionship should the need arise to be seen and heard.
Retreating also affords us an opportunity to restore our Balance, and to find ways to protect our inner lives from external over-exposure. Taking one’s heart into hibernation reminds us to be more aware of those things we can be grateful for, especially a deepening awareness of the gifts the present moment brings. It is as if we find an oasis at which there is a well, and there, sitting in the cool shade of ancient trees, we have the time to draw, from deep within our inner lives, the miracles, both big and small, that so often go unnoticed.
At Temenos, we offer scheduled workshops and retreats that encourage a structured time for mindfulness or reflection or creativity. Should you be interested please go to our website www.temenosretreat.co.za
You are also welcome, as many of our guests do, to make your own Solo Retreat, and enjoy the peace and tranquillity of our gardens and the many sacred spaces and secret corners that have been especially created for quiet and contemplation.
May the gift of inner peace and ‘soft eyes’ be yours.
Love
Billy, the gardener.
Temenos Seasonal Packages
PAMPERING WEEKEND 14-16 MARCH
Unwind and embrace the beautiful gardens of Temenos. Indulge in a sound bath, body massage,
guided walks and a delicious Tebaldi’s dinner
Single rate: R4000
Per person sharing R3800
ROMANTIC GETAWAY 21-23 MARCH & 25-28 APRIL
You will find Temenos gardens the ideal Romantic getaway. The winding paths and hidden gems within
the gardens is a unique Romantic experience in the little village of McGregor.
Included in the Romantic getaway.
Body massage, guided village walk, two romantic dinners and breakfast included
Per person sharing R3950
PENSIONER & CAREGIVER PACKAGE – AN EXTRA SPECIAL WEEKDAY PACKAGE 7-11 APRIL
Each year Temenos provide caregivers with an opportunity to enjoy our special offer of stay for
4 nights and pay for 2
Single R2080 - Per person sharing R3720
EASTER AT TEMENOS 17-21 APRIL
Celebrate Easter in McGregor - the most beautiful time of the year in our Village.
Package includes Two dinners an Easter lunch and three breakfasts
Single R4750 - Per person sharing R4500
Upcoming Retreats
6 - 9 March (hello@celestedutoit.co.za)
A Transformational 3-day Retreat to Reawaken your Passions, Rediscover your Purpose, and Reignite your Joy. Set at the renowned Temenos Retreat Centre in McGregor’s tranquil village, this experience nurtures mind, body, and soul. With nurturing guidance, transformational healing, and practical tools, you’ll: • Reignite your vitality and joy. • Reclaim your personal power. • Realign with your authentic self and life’s purpose.
Tango Heart Mindfulness in connection with Rachael Glaser
28-30 March (reception@temenosretreat.co.za)
This unique workshop designed by tango teacher Rachael Glaser focuses on the importance of a mindful connection with both your dance partner and the earth that supports and energises the dance.
4 - 6 April ( lauren@flowingnomads.com)
The Flowing Nomads Team will guide you through this transformative experience, offering support and wisdom to enhance both your practice and personal journey. Engage in meaningful conversations, uncover fresh perspectives, and leave feeling more grounded and connected.
with Dorian Haarhoff and Buster Petersen
25 - 28 April (dorianhaa@gmail.com) receptiom@temenosretreat.co.za
Time to write, or paint, circle the garden of the beloved … the labyrinth… communicate with peacocks and peahens … meditate amidst blue glass… breathe… be…. come and source your bliss. An idyllic in-depth artistic discovery.
with Rabbi Greg, Rabbi Andi and Balu Nivison
2 - 4 May (ravgreg@templeisrael.co.za)
Through movement, meditation and art we will discover and explore the spiritual side of Judaism and ourselves. Participants are invited to come with open minds and leave with opened hearts. No prior knowledge or Jewish experience necessary, all welcome.
30 May -1 June (johann@johannvangreunen.co.za)
Through the practice of Mindfulness Meditation this retreat aims to provide the nurturing and healing space needed for the necessary journey inward, entering the threshold of mystery through silence that will allow body and soul to restore.
I will offer additional Reiki sessions on this retreat to further enhance the body’s own restorative and balancing properties and support inner healing.
Silent Retreat with Billy Kennedy
9 -13 June (reception@temenosretreat.co.za)
A time of Silence and solitude
For the duration of the retreat the gardens are closed to the general public.
The retreat includes:
Four nights’ accommodation
Vegetarian breakfast and dinner
Three silent meditations daily
Two optional yoga sessions (Tuesday and Thursday)
Optional embracing prayer session
Two early morning village walk
R4950