On 19th April 2025, the BLIA YAD Auckland held a One-Day English Meditation Retreat. A total of 21 participants, including members of the English Dharma Service, University of Auckland students and YAD members, gathered at the Temple to explore mindfulness through meditation. Under the guidance of FGS NZ Abbess Manshin, participants learned to cultivate right understandings through meditation, offering a respite from busy academic and work schedules to reflect and engage in silent self-dialogues and recharge themselves.
Abbess Manshin emphasised the importance of seizing opportunities to cultivate wisdom and gain the right understanding of worldly phenomena. When one cultivates one’s potential, life can be filled with hope. Abbess encouraged all to view cultivation as a continual refinement of thoughts, practicing mindfulness in every moment through walking, standing, sitting or lying down. This practice allows for the rediscovery of inner purity and strength by consistently upholding the right mindfulness and attitudes.
Venerable Miaoyu of FGS Auckland led participants in the Breath-Counting Meditation. The guidance helped attendees to gently release physical tension and quiet the mind, returning to a place of inner calm and stillness. YAD committees Edwin and Thomas introduced participants to formal meal etiquette, guiding them through mindful eating practices. This involved holding the bowl, observing the food with gratitude, and chanting reflection verses, fostering awareness and appreciation for every bite. During tea meditation, Venerable guided attendees to focus on the tea, appreciating its fragrance and drinking with awareness. This simple act allowed them to experience the depth of Chan, finding clarity and insight in each moment.
Andrew Eatock from the English Dharma Service praised the retreat’s diverse programme and found the experience rewarding. He also appreciated Abbess Manshin’s thoughtful teachings. Participant Ash appreciated the session, which helped him relax. He enjoyed the peaceful practice during meals and recognised the significance of being mindful daily.
Claudine, a member of the Fo Guang Club, reflected on the Abbess’s teaching about living in the present. Inspired by life’s impermanence, she felt encouraged to seize each opportunity and integrate Dharma into her daily routine. She thanked the Temple for creating a warm, inclusive space and looked forward to future participation. Ryan, a University of Auckland student, shared how the Temple’s peaceful environment helped him reflect and calm his thoughts. He praised the vegetarian meals and the structured programme, calling the day fulfilling and uplifting.
