What to bring

Clothing

The aim of the retreat is to prevent our minds being distracted by the outside environment. To this end, clothing should be simple, modest, and comfortable. Skimpy, revealing or tight clothing is not appropriate. Make up is not necessary and sunbathing and partial nudity are not permitted. Be prepared for cold even in summer. Although the bushland around the retreat is out of bounds, comfortable walking shoes will be needed for walking around the retreat.

Toiletries

Please bring your own soap, shampoo, conditioner, shower towel and personal hygiene products. Do not forget to bring any medication you are currently taking. The retreat has a fully-stocked first-aid kit. Please do not hesitate to ask staff if you require anything from it, such as headache tablets or bandaids. Tampons and pads are also available on request.

Do’s and Dont’s

Don’t:

The retreat is situated in bushland in the Northern outskirts of Sydney. This is a high fire danger area throughout most of the year. Consequently no fires may be lit at the retreat, either inside or outside the rooms. In the event of a fire or emergency, please assemble outside the main meditation hall and await instructions from staff.

Water is very scarce in the retreat area. Consequently we ask everyone to conserve water as much as possible, and to never leave taps running. There are no laundry facilities at the retreat, so please take your washing home with you.

Please switch off your mobile phones, computers, computer games, radios and stereos during the retreat in order to minimise distraction to yourself and to others.

No drugs, alcohol, cigarettes or other intoxicants can be consumed at the retreat, and participants should not bring them to the retreat.

Don’t worry if you are a beginner – the retreat is for all levels of meditators. Meditation is simple, relaxing and pleasant and you will be guided during each meditation by a monk. Just relax and listen to his voice.

Do:

Do strive for perfection by trying to maintain 8 precepts during the retreat.

Do feel free to ask our volunteer staff or the monks any questions you may have about the retreat, DISA or Buddhism in general.

Do gain as much as you can from the retreat. This is a time to focus on yourself. Enjoy it!