A Journey of Mindfulness and Reflection at the Year 10 Retreat
A Journey of Mindfulness and Reflection at the Year 10 Retreat
Reflecting on this week’s Year 10 Retreat, our students shared their experiences of mindfulness and relaxation. 🌿✨ From meditative clay sculpting to solo labyrinth walks, these activities brought a sense of calm and introspection. Here’s what some students had to say:
“The retreat was a great experience. We participated in a range of mindful activities such as mandala making, meditative clay sculpting and a labyrinth walk. The activities were fun and relaxing and created a calming experience. My favourite activity was walking the labyrinth. We each spent around 20 minutes on a solo journey during which we read meditations and completed some prayerful activities.” – Maria Jurasic 10PK
“The Year 10 Retreat was an eye opening and relaxing, calming experience. The labyrinth walk was an opportunity to focus on your inner life, while completing some activities on your journey to the centre and out again.” – Lauren Wallace-Fletcher 10PK
“The words of the mandala meditation were very strong and deep, talking about letting unnecessary sadness go and letting the floor carry our weight, so we can be light and free. This activity was one of my favourites as each person interpreted the meditation differently and all had the freedom to draw what they felt into a mandala. Everyone said it was a good start to our stress-free day. On the labyrinth walk there was a range of activities along the path to the middle and back out. I especially enjoyed the activities about setting out bad thoughts free and praying for others. During the journey through the labyrinth, there was calming music playing, which freed your mind. The labyrinth experience was very new and fresh for me and many others, but I enjoyed it a lot and feel it opened me up in many ways.” – Addison Repen 10SN
“Attending the Year 10 Retreat in Aldgate was an unforgettable experience. Despite the chilly weather freezing the tip of our noses, the stunning views made every moment worthwhile! One of the most impactful activities was navigating our way through the labyrinth, the activities we did throughout this allowed me to focus on aspects of life I hadn’t given much focus to before, as well as allowing us to think about God. We were fortunate enough to have delicious scones and cream for morning tea. We then engaged in a clay activity, where we created objects that represented our connection to God. It was a reflective and meaningful exercise which we all enjoyed! Drawing mandalas followed, which was both fun and calming. Lunch was not only spectacular because the food was delightful, but also because it was prepared by volunteers who showcased the mercy values of service and hospitality we follow at St Aloysius. This retreat also provided an opportunity for everyone to interact with other Year 10s they usually didn’t talk to, leading to new friendships sprouting. Overall, it was a rewarding and enriching experience that I am grateful to be a part of.” – Mariya Zhagwan 10SN
