MEDITATION | DR IAN GAWLER

WORKSHOP 3: PERENNIAL WISDOM, MEDITATION & HAPPINESS

with Dr Ian Gawler OAM,pioneer in popularising meditation and other mind-body techniques in the Western world; Founder, The Gawler Foundation 

Workshop Outline
These days meditation is often used in a manner somewhat akin to a drug. Many take it short-term, like a medicine, when they have a particular health need; others use it more like a steroid to enhance performance. While there is evidence this works to a degree, traditionally meditation did not exist within a vacuum. It was always an integral component of the spiritual path and was accompanied by wisdom teachings.

In this highly experiential workshop, we will explore the Perennial Wisdom common to all the great traditions, how that wisdom informs the practice of meditation, and how wisdom and meditation combine to build lasting happiness. The workshop will include information sharing, plenty of discussion and interaction, good time for questions and answers and solid meditation practice sessions led by the speaker.

We will examine:

• What helps individuals to develop a satisfying and regular meditation practice?
• Meditation practices relevant and appropriate for those seeking healing, to enhance performance and/or for those on the spiritual path
• What is “Perennial Wisdom”; what is common to all the great traditions and what are some of the key differences?
• How does Perennial Wisdom inform meditation practice, and provide a more realistic view of life?

• Learning the key components of Perennial Wisdom
• Deepening your understanding and experience of meditation
• Understanding how Perennial Wisdom combines with meditation to enhance satisfaction with practice and lead to increased levels of long-term happiness
• Appreciating how and why different meditation techniques are suitable for different purposes

MEDITATION AND PERSONAL KINDNESS

It is said meditation is the greatest gift you can give to yourself or to someone else. It is also said the discipline required to practice regularly and to receive this gift fully is a personal kindness. For some, meditation might seem like a struggle, an effort, something they “have to do”. Here we explore its kinder aspects and the secrets to satisfying and regular practice.

Dr Ian Gawler OAM, pioneer in popularising meditation and other mind-body techniques in the Western world; Founder, The Gawler Foundation

PANEL: LIVING AN ETHICAL LIFE: HOW TO MAKE GOOD CHOICES IN THE FACE OF TEMPTATION, CHALLENGES AND UNCERTAINTY

Most of us aspire to leading an ethical life but things are not always black and white. How can we make the best choices possible for our own and others’ wellbeing and happiness? What can we do to resist temptation, navigate challenges and make friends with uncertainty?

Professor Michael F Steger; Aunty Munda Andrews; Katherine Trebeck; Dr Ian Gawler OAM; Dr Shane Clifton

Moderator: Jenny Steadman, Acting National Director, Potential Project