Many religions and philosophies come across as men-only affairs, Buddhism is no exception: male voices dominate, reflecting gender and cultural biases both past and present. During this retreat we will hear the voices of the many women in the Zen Buddhist tradition, from the first millennium to the modern day, including the first female Zen Master Chiyono from the thirteenth century (she dropped a water bucket and found her life) to more recent Zen teachers such as Maurine Stuart. Their thoughts and their luminous poetry will shine a light on our daily lives and support us in our practice throughout this gentle Zen-style silent retreat, which will include sitting and walking meditation, a discussion period, and time to enjoy the beautiful grounds of the Buddhist Retreat Centre.

Find meaningful solitude on a Self-Retreat.  One can do as much (or as little) reading, walking, meditation or resting as one chooses. Enjoy walks and bird watching in 300 acres of beautiful rolling hills and indigenous forests. Enjoy some qigong, meditation and treatments and savour our delicious vegetarian food; or browse our well-stocked library. Visit the stupa and the raked Zen sand gardens and walk the labyrinth. Massage treatments, guided walks, qigong and meditation are offered by resident staff mid week. Self-Retreats are an ideal opportunity to be in a gentle, sympathetic space where one can be still and get in touch with oneself.