Meditation Classes
Buddhist Meditation - Theravada & Zen
Buddhist Meditation is a tried-and-true method of accumulating mindfulness and sinking deep into absorption resulting in profound states of samadhi. We cover the techniques of Ananapanasati and Vipassna and then go deeper with the master meditation techniques of the Thailand Forest Monks which Buddha himself used for enlightenment. We also offer Zen Meditation where we explore the practices of Zazen, Koans & Shikantaza.
Himalayan Raja Yoga Meditation
Raja Yoga – The Royal Path of Meditation
Raja Yoga is considered the highest path of meditation, the distilled essence of all spiritual disciplines—and was the chosen practice of the great masters of the past.
This ancient system uses five core techniques to connect us with the healing power of the breath and the clarity of a focused mind. By uniting breath and concentration, we gain profound insight into our inner state, recognising the self-created patterns that cause us suffering and discovering the exact means to overcome them.
Raja Yoga offers a direct path to anchoring ourselves in true inner peace and happiness, independent of external circumstances. It gently guides us toward our own radiant, wisdom-filled essence, systematically strengthening that connection. Over time, as we repeatedly touch the indwelling light that lies beyond all suffering, it transforms our waking consciousness, dissolving the boundary between the human and the spiritual aspects of our life.
Tantric Meditation
Most meditation traditions aim to still the mind so we can perceive what lies beyond it, cultivating a state known as witness consciousness. While Tantric yogis recognised the value of this, their primary approach was quite different.
Rather than trying to stop the mind’s movement, they acknowledged that the mind naturally enjoys following stimulation and seeking the next intriguing thing. Their strategy was to offer it progressively more powerful and positively charged points of focus, drawing it toward ever-greater refinement, until it became fully absorbed. They understood that the mind takes on the qualities of whatever it engages with, and through such association, it is gradually transformed.
This method goes beyond surface-level mental stillness, allowing practitioners to access the profound depth and wonder found in true stillness, to touch the Infinite directly and embody it more fully over time. In Tantra, such meditative methods are often known as Kriyas and typically work with the sacred tools of Yantra (geometric symbols) and Mantra (sacred sound).
Meditation Classes
Every Sunday morning we hold meditation classes at Soul Room. The studio holds only five so please contact in advance to book a spot. We alternate the meditations between Buddhist Meditation, Himalayan Raja Yoga Meditation and Tantric Meditations.
To Book:
email: [email protected]
phone: 021 989268
60 min class: $30
'Had been to soul room to understand a few basics about meditation. Chardin was so welcoming, took me through a 30 min guided meditation. Left me feeling blissful, grounded and uplifted at the same time.
He is very knowledgeable and experienced. Soulroom also has a library with some great books. Will definitely visit again.'
Pranav Uplap - May 26
'Chardin led me and a few friends in a guided meditation session at Soul Room, and it was a truly lovely experience.
His calm presence immediately set the tone, and the cadence of his directives created a steady rhythm that made it easy to drop in and stay present.
He has a thoughtful way of guiding the room- clear without being forceful, gentle without losing structure.
We all left feeling restored and centred, I would highly recommend.'
Christy- February 26
'While visiting a dear friend who had recently settled in Oakura, New Zealand—both of us originally from Santa Barbara, California—I felt calm the moment I stepped into Chardin’s Soul Room.
Chardin then gently and skillfully guided us through an hour-long meditation.
From the first mindful breath, the experience moved through my body and was profoundly transformative.
I left feeling grounded, nourished, and deeply connected.'
Heather- February 26
'I’ve visited Soul Room twice now, once for a guided meditation and once to browse the library.
Both times I found it incredibly peaceful and nourishing.
It’s a beautiful, calming space with a great range of books to explore.
Chardin is a warm and genuine soul, and I left feeling centred and uplifted.
Highly recommend.'
Sue Baudet- February 26
'I’ve attended meditation and kirtan sessions at Soul Room Oakura and it’s a really special space.
The environment is calm and welcoming, and the practices are both grounding and uplifting.
I always leave feeling more centred and clear.
Highly recommend.'
Mark Dekker - January 26
'Soul Room is definitely filled with lots of amazing soul lifting energy!
Chardin is so enlightened and filled with so much energy and love to share.
He has so much knowledge and understanding of the universe and the spirit that he is.
His meditations are always great and so easy to follow and I felt like 10 mins passed for an hour meditation class.
He has so much to give and I am so grateful to have experienced his classes.
Definitely recommend!!!'
Selina Big- December 25
'I recently attended a meditation class with Chardin on a retreat in Sri Lanka.
His work was deeply insightful and returned me to a state of presence and calm.
The work he is doing through Soul Room is so incredible important right now…for individuals, communities and the world.
If you’re looking for a grounded teacher to reach heightened states of awareness, you’ve found one.
Thank you Chardin '
Heather Leighton- December 25
'Went for my first meditation with Chardin, and immediately felt safe and comfortable in the cosy space.
Love his amazing wisdom and energy, and that he teaches meditation according to each individual’s level.
His mantra chanting during meditation was drawing me deeper into the energy opening on my 3rd eye and crown chakra.
Thank you for the beautiful experience.'
Joey Lam - November 25
'I highly recommend Soul Room. Chardin’s teachings are wise, compassionate, and deeply insightful.
I’m truly grateful to have found this space.
It’s perfect for those beginning a meditation practice or seeking a richer understanding of Hinduism, its rituals, and the practices of Tantra.'
Nilanjana Bose-Ciupinska - November 25
'Sweet and nourishing little space filled with peaceful abundance!
I enjoyed a beautiful guided meditation with Chardin where I learned some new things.
Highly recommend!'
Crystal R - November 25
'The stars aligned! I had been looking for a meditation space and found Chardin and his Soul Room at the perfect time.
The space itself was created through transition, love and growth and Chardin brings these same essences to his practice and shares them with you.
Very rarely have I met someone so joyous about yoga and meditation - its infection.
Kitty Stevenson - October 25
'Had a wonderful meditation session with Chardin.
He is so kind and authentic, found it super easy to relax.
I left feeling lighter and refreshed, thank you so much!
Highly recommend :))'
Tara Dennehy - September 25
'I walked into Soul Room Oakura carrying a lot and left feeling lighter, clearer, and deeply refreshed.
The meditation session was beautifully guided and incredibly effective; it helped me reset in ways I didn’t know I needed.
Chardin’s generosity, welcoming energy, and selfless dedication to the community created a space that felt truly healing.
It was more than just meditation, it was an act of kindness I won’t forget.'
Nestor Matinez Salo - July 25
'In depth knowledge - place to go if you want to learn higher principles of yoga and meditation'
Rodi Ren - September 24
'Place to learn advanced meditation and yoga. beautiful location.'
Tymothy Clark - August 24