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bhuddafield
What is a retreat like?Going on retreat is like nothing youšve done before - even when you have done it before. Many people say that going on a retreat is a definite highlight, a positive turning point in their lives. For a week or maybe longer you can live simply and cheaply camping in fields in a beautiful part of South West England; an area rich in legend and spiritual tradition. But therešs more to being on retreat than living communally in pleasant surroundings. Meditation plays an important part in any retreat. Newcomers will be taught two practices: the Mindfulness of Breathing to help develop calmness and focus, and the Metta Bhavana which is a way to cultivate friendliness towards all beings. These meditations are common to everyone, whether you have been practising for many years or are just starting. Meditation is a natural method of developing awareness and done regularly it has lasting results. It presents a systematic approach to gaining an increased awareness of ourselves, of our bodies and movement, and of our feelings,thoughts and emotions. We also gain a better appreciation of other people just as they are, whatever their relationship is to us. An expanded awareness may also affect how we experience and respond to our environment. Meditation can take us from distraction and stress to feeling more relaxed, able to make creative changes where needed, seeing things more clearly and discovering ourselves more fully. Ultimately it leads to Enlightenment; the greatest possible expression of Wisdom, Compassion, and Energy. A typical day on retreat starts with an early morning wake-up call and everyone meditates together before breakfast around 9.00 am. This is followed by a short meeting where the necessary tasks of the day are sorted out. You may find yourself volunteering to collect firewood, chop vegetables, decorate the meditation tent, keep the tea kettles boiling.... Later there will be a group discussion period, more meditation and a chance to try Yoga or Chi Gong. In the afternoon you may wish to chat around the fire, or go for walks, or have an hour or so all to yourself in some sunny spot. After supper, once the sun has disappeared, comes a final session in the meditation space, usually with a talk on some aspect of Buddhism some chanting and quiet reflection. For many people the day isnšt complete without a dip in the now famous hot tubs. Basking in steaming water as the moon clears the clouds, stars sparkling above you and the glow of the lanterns from the camp softly beckoning - the perfect prelude to sleep. contact details: For Bookings or information contact us: Buddhafield Telephone/fax: (020) 8671 7144 Email: info@bhuddhafield.com |
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