Introductory Weekend: Mindfulness September 2024

On a retreat, beyond the busyness and pressures of our daily lives, we can give ourselves space and time to go deeper into our experience, get beyond the usual chatter in our heads, and allow clearer perspectives to emerge on what is truly important to us in our lives.  2,500 years ago, the Buddha described mindfulness as ‘clear and radiant’ and as ‘stillness, simplicity and contentment’.  He saw it as a deeply human quality of unlimited potential and which can bring meaning and happiness to our lives. Yet we do not need to be Buddhist nor interested in Buddhism to benefit from mindfulness.

We will fully introduce the Mindfulness of Breathing, a simple, effective and traditional meditation.  In this practice we focus on the natural experience of breathing, in a way which is both directed and relaxed and which unfolds through a series of structured stages.

The retreat will also include activities to explore bringing mindfulness into our daily lives, small discussion groups, presentations, and some time for ourselves: to relax, let go and appreciate sitting quietly or walking in the landscape.

Retreat Team: 

The retreat is led by women who are ordained within the Triratna Buddhist Community and are experienced meditators and teachers.  They may well have different lifestyles and be different ages.  They may be living in the spiritual community at Taraloka, working in the world or bringing up a family.  However, they will look forward to sharing the practice of mindfulness with you - its significance, its ups and downs and its continuing potential - and to offering this within the beauty of Taraloka and its landscape.