Monks soothe by the surf

Mesmorising melodic chanting, inspirational discussion, and guided meditation.

The Gyuto Monks of Tibet are helping Bondi residents find their inner calm.

Bondi Pavilion is hosting an interactive program for all ages from April 6-22, to help people deal with modern day challenges and finding self-worth through Buddhism values.

Mr Sonam Rigzin, a Tibetan interpreter who has toured with the monks for over 17 years, said the Gyuto Monks draw on thousands of years of learning and culture.

“Meditation in a Buddhist way is to calm your mind. It’s the peace and clarity you gain, and then you use that to reboot your mental system,” Mr Rigzin said.

Many people who attend these workshops are driven by a desire to escape their own lives and find a new direction, he said.

“People have enough in their lives I think, so they’re looking for something deeper, beyond who they are.

“The monks believe you should go back to wherever you came from, and make the most of that.

See the meaning in whatever you do,” he said.

Having previously visited Bondi, the Gyuto Monks of Tibet have developed a good connection with the people.

“Bondi people are much more inquisitive, they are interested in themselves.

What the monks do through their meditations, could be seen as self development.

It’s the perfect marriage,” Mr Rigzin said.

Part of the Gyuto Monks Australian tour is a bid to raise awareness of the ongoing political challenges that Tibetan people have faced since Communist China invaded in 1959.

“Gyuto Monks have been peacfully promoting Tibetan issues world-wide through their arts and music, with the hope to regain a free Tibet one day,” Mr Rigzin said.

These fundraising missions are the only way to preserve their culture and support the Tibetan refugees.

Bondi photographer Ms Tobi Wilkinson has produced a collection of powerful images for sale of the Gyuto Monks, raising funds for the Monastery.

“It’s important to me that the images have artistic merit but also has integrity to their way of life, their spiritual practice,” she said.

Mr Rigzin said: “Australians are very generous and don’t expect anything in return which fits in so well with Buddhist values.”

For more information on “The Infinite Present’ tour visit www.gyuto.co

By Lynn Chinnock