Devote yourself to the art of meditation within the embrace of Mother Nature. Image: Shutterstock
Set amidst the beautiful forests in Bentong, Kechara Forest Retreat is a perfect destination for busy professionals who yearn for a short escape from the city’s madness (hint: all of us?). BAZAAR embarked on this spiritual journey to experience a night of “switching off”, and rounds up the three reasons why this is a trip worth taking.
Discover meditation like you never have
Regular meditation offers a state of mind without the emotional baggage. This two-day, one-night program allows ample time for beginners to learn about the fundamentals of meditation, followed by short exercises and guidance. Starting with sitting meditation, a method of developing discipline physically and mentally, you will find yourself understanding the newfound clarity that penetrates your mind. During meal times, eating meditation is practised, whereby you are made aware of the tasting notes of the different natural ingredients, put together in one dish.
Increase awareness on your senses and daily movements
Feldenkrais is a different exercise that was created by Ukraine physicist Moshé Feldenkrais. He once said, “Movement is life and life is a process. Improve the quality of the process and you improve the quality of life itself.” This approach was devised to benefit the nervous system, improve body movements, a crucial element to promoting physical wellness. Done in a slower pace, it gives mindfulness to every motion of the human body, training your concentration and enhancing your attentiveness for a more balanced lifestyle. On the other hand, the sensory discovery class is carried out with basic herbs from your garden to trigger possible past experiences that have had an impact on your emotions. New methods of handling these herbs will be introduced. Come to realisation that the natural fragrance emitted can help to rid the mind of unwanted feelings and bring a wave of serenity.
Reconnect with yourself and your surroundings
Trading the Kuala Lumpur traffic for some fresh air during the weekend sounds a little far-fetched? The ReConnect Series: Inner Peace Retreat is designed to create a comprehensive experience of discovering yourself, where Mother Nature heals your mind and body. The highlight of the programme has got to be the sunrise meditation. This presents a rare opportunity to develop calmness, recognise the amazing start of the day, and treasure the precious beauty of dawn as the morning mist gently drifts across the pond of water lilies.
The Inner Peace Retreat at Kechara Forest Retreat, Bentong is available at least once a month, on a first-come first-serve basis. Read more on retreat.kechara.com or email contact@kechara.com for more details.
