The mind can be like a monkey, jumping here and there - from one emotion or thought to another. In order to find peace and stability, it is useful to calm the mind by giving it something on which to focus, like the breath or sound. Once the mind has settled, it is able to be clearly aware of the truth of what is happening in the moment. This is called insight. The union of both Calm Abiding and Insight is necessary to overcome the scattered ignorance of the ordinary mind - leading to liberation. This retreat will include the explanation and practise of Calm Abiding and Insight Meditation.

Join Duncan on a loosely structured  5 day mid-week retreat which will incorporate yoga, meditation, rest, walks and reflection. The retreat is based on the ancient practices of hatha and raja yoga and is open to all levels of ability, including beginners, who wish to understand the fundamentals of yoga and develop, or deepen, their own practice. In the tranquil environment of the Buddhist Retreat Centre. We will discover how shatkarmas (cleansing techniques), asanas (postures), pranayama (control of the breath), mudra (gestures to manipulate and stimulate the energies in the body), bandhas (energy locks with the body) bring us into equilibrium. These traditional practices will help us to develop awareness of body, mind and breath. As the body gently opens like a lotus flower, and we start to release our past impressions, so the mind becomes relaxed preparing us for meditation. We will follow traditional guided meditation techniques in the meditation hall and in the labyrinth to quieten the mind, calm anxieties, recover balance in life and enhance creativity, insight and self-reflection. You will leave restored and rejuvenated.