What we offer

Morning and evening meditation periods are a central part of retreat life at Emoyeni. These sessions are usually led by our resident meditation teacher and founder of Emoyeni, Mervyn Croft, and take place in the meditation hall.

You are welcome to sit in any posture that feels comfortable for you. Chairs, meditation benches, cushions and blankets are provided. No prior meditation experience is required: gentle, clear instructions are offered, and there is no sense of judgement or expectation. Each meditator is supported by the shared energy of the group.

Retreats often begin with a short period of Chi Kung (Qigong) in the morning. Chi Kung is a Chinese holistic system of gentle movement, breathing and awareness that helps prepare the body for sitting meditation and supports the integration of body and mind. From time to time, yoga is also offered – either as part of a retreat programme or by arrangement during self-retreats. Yoga retreats are led by Paul Carlos of Sacred Spiral Yoga, whose classes are suitable for all levels of experience and encourage participants to “go beyond asana”. Participants are asked to bring their own yoga mats and comfortable clothing.

All meals at Emoyeni are ovo-lacto vegetarian and are prepared with care. Breakfast generally consists of nourishing porridge, cereals, fruit and toast. Lunch is the main meal of the day and is substantial, while evening meals are lighter, typically soup, salad and bread. Our drinking water comes from a pure mountain spring, so there is no need to bring your own. Morning tea often includes a special herb tea made from plants grown in our own garden. Gluten-free and vegan options are available on request, and we are happy to discuss other dietary requirements where possible.

Emoyeni is surrounded by open land and rolling hills, offering scenic walking trails and space to explore. Retreatants can enjoy gentle walks around the grounds or longer hikes into the surrounding Magaliesberg landscape. Guided walks are sometimes offered and may include visits to the labyrinth, the Python Pond or other natural features. Time outdoors is an integral part of the retreat rhythm, supporting rest, awareness and embodied presence.

Emoyeni’s library and shared quiet spaces offer places to rest, read and reflect between periods of practice. The collection includes books on Buddhism, mindfulness, meditation and non-dual inquiry, alongside related contemplative and philosophical works. These spaces are intended for quiet reading, reflection and simple downtime between retreat sessions.

The labyrinth sits at the top of a hill overlooking the surrounding mountains. It is laid out with stones and is very much part of the natural landscape of grasses and earth. Walking the labyrinth is an ancient contemplative practice that offers an alternative to seated meditation. Many retreatants find it a quiet and grounding way to reflect, settle the mind or gain clarity.