Halifax Shambhala Centre holding week-long meditation retreat

The loud, hustle and bustle of this time of year will soon become very quiet for some.

The Halifax Shambhala Centre is holding a a week-long intensive meditation retreat happening between Boxing Day and New Year's Day.

"It's kind of like a boot camp for your mind," said Jason Harvey, a member of the centre and one of 20 people taking part in the retreat. The centre's website is still accepting new participants. 

Senior teacher Tom Bell says the holiday season is an ideal time for a session like this one.

"It's a good opportunity to have something where you can gather together with other people and really explore how you feel, and how your mind works," he said.

The group will meditate for eight hours each day. That includes sitting, contemplating and walking outdoors.

There won't be much talking, but there will be a sense of community.

"Sometimes people are going through difficult times, like if they're separated from their family. And they maybe have some tears come when they're meditating, but ... everyone's feeling the sadness and the tenderness of the heart," said Bell.

Harvey echoes that sentiment.

"Eighty-five per cent of the communication is nonverbal so… there's still a lot of communication going on," he said.

Shambhala's program coordinator says the retreat gives her space and time for herself.

"Personally, I find it nourishing," said Nelleke Strik.