What happened when I went away….
I want to introduce my perspective on retreats. The moment when the concept of going on retreat changed for me completely. I had been leading an MSc Mindfulness & Compassion for a few years when Choden, a Buddhist monk invited us to visit Samye Ling Monastery in Scotland. Excited for adventure we arrived, staff and students keen to embrace the experience.
Each day I became keenly aware that there was a very beautiful energy surrounding the Monastery. I decided that the whole place felt as though it was built on a prayer. For years and years monks have chanted and spoke words of compassion, building up the most loving energy. However, on one particular day I sat in a room that is devoted to the idea that every human being may experience compassion. As I sat, I began to experience a profound and beautiful feeling. A feeling of love that I have never felt before. It was all encompassing. Tears poured down my cheeks for over half an hour. There was no story to speak of, it was a pure release. It felt like something was eased within me, but also something was deeply understood. I couldn’t put more words to it than that. Apart from knowing that the room held such a powerful compassionate energy that just being present was enough to experience healing.
We believe in the importance of spaciousness, of time to connect to the heart of who you are. To also allow the love from those who guide in spirit to be felt and known. Often whilst in the day to day grind of our lives, the space to heal, transform or just find peace within is not readily available. The magic begins when we step into a compassionately held space with the intention to learn and grow. Allowing the mind, body and spirit space to just ‘be’.
Together, Andy and I, we create the environment for you to find that spaciousness within. Bringing mindful compassionate practices, to calm the mind and body. Ways to connect with your own innate wisdom and allow the love that surrounds you to be felt. As you immerse yourself in this energy, and create space to go within, you allow change that doesn’t need to be forced. This is why going on retreat can be so powerfully gentle yet transformative. You are taking a breather from your every day life and allowing your mind to open. Being in a different environment, with likeminded people, and held in the energy of compassion creates opportunity for gentle healing and a long lasting reset.
Our next retreats are detailed here. The path of the Healer - Wales.
Retreat to Portugal - The Reset.
We look forward to welcoming you soon.
