I offer weekly classes (physically located in Cheltenham, UK, but also accessible via Zoom), and periodically run retreats, both online and in person. From time to time I also meet up with people one-on-one, either in person or online - I don't charge for this, but it's subject to availability in my calendar!

If you're interested in something that isn't listed below, please do feel free to contact me and we can talk about it.

  • My weekly Zen and early Buddhism class is open to all levels of experience but is particularly intended to support your on-going meditation practice. See below for more details!
 
  • I also run retreats and other events throughout the year. A list of upcoming events is given below, along with a bit of information about each. This list does change from time to time - the best way to keep track of upcoming events is to join my mailing list here! (It's very low traffic, approximately one email every couple of months.)

Zen and early Buddhism class
In this weekly class we explore the wide world of Buddhist meditation. Classes typically begin with an opening meditation to settle the mind, followed by a talk exploring some aspect of either Zen or early Buddhism (two complementary approaches to the same end), and concluding with some movement and meditation practices which put the teachings into action.

The class, which runs on a donation basis, explores a wide range of themes from week to week, including insight, samadhi, heart-opening and energy practices.

We have a small, friendly group of regulars, and newcomers are always welcome. Each session is self-contained, and instructions are tailored to the experience levels of students in the room that week, so you can start any time. Come along and give it a try!
Wednesdays, 7.30pm-8.45pm, at OrangeYoga (Crescent Bakery), in studio 3 (turn right as you enter the courtyard). Classes are also live-streamed via Zoom for those who can't make it in person.

Classes run every Wednesday except for the following dates in 2023:
  • ​22nd November
  • 20th December
  • 27th December

Booking is essential: please book here.
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The class runs on a donation basis. Most people donate between £5 and £10 for a session, although there's no obligation to give anything if you can't afford it. Please give within your means - times are hard for everyone.

Retreats, courses and other upcoming events

Jhana retreats with Leigh Brasington

The jhanas are deep concentration states which can arise during samadhi practice. The experiences of bliss, joy, contentment and equanimity which result are not only interesting in themselves, but also give rise to a mind which is substantially quieter, clearer and sharper than usual, and thus tend to accelerate and deepen one's insight practice as well.

These retreats offer a complete spiritual path drawn from the early Buddhist tradition. They have a strong focus on the practice of learning and cultivating the jhanas, as taught by my teacher Leigh Brasington, complemented by a range of insight and heart-opening practices.

Since 2022 Leigh and I have offered a yearly online jhana retreat through Gaia House, and we're hoping that will continue. Leigh also offers other retreats (some in the UK timezone, others in U.S. timezones), so check out his retreats page if the dates below don't work for you.

Prerequisites: Jhana retreats are suitable for anyone with an established meditation practice who has attended two or more seven-day silent retreats previously. If you don't meet these prerequisites but would still like to come, please contact me to discuss.

Dates:
  • 22 November - 2 December 2024, online via Zoom.
    • Booking is essential: please see the Gaia House website for costs and booking details (link will be added once the 2024 retreat programme is published).
  • (Future dates will be announced as they become available - my intention is to run at least one jhana retreat each year.)

Online retreat logistics: International applicants are welcome for online retreats. Talks (typically given at 11am and 8pm UK time) are recorded and made available online. All participants will be required to attend interviews every few days, which will typically take place between 2pm and 6pm UK time.

Silent Illumination practice days

Silent Illumination is one of Zen's most iconic practices. Also known as shikantaza or 'just sitting', it's a simple yet profound practice that invites us to meet each moment with peace and clarity.

Silent Illumination is a practice which really benefits from extended immersion, and day retreats provide an opportunity to go deeper than is possible in our regular Wednesday night class. The practice is supported by full instructions, talks and optional private interviews, with the primary emphasis on creating an environment for us to practise together.

Please bring a light packed lunch to eat at the studio.

​Prerequisites: The only prerequisites for Silent Illumination day retreats are an interest in the practice and a willingness to keep going! Prior experience of Silent Illumination (e.g. from attending my Wednesday night class) is helpful, but not required. Full instruction will be given.

Dates:
  • 21st January 2024, 1100-1600, OrangeYoga studio 3, donation-based (pay what you can).
  • (Future dates will be announced as they become available - my intention is to run these twice a year.)

In-person retreat logistics: Attendance for the whole day is strongly preferable; please contact me if you'd like to attend but won't be able to make the whole day. Please bring a light packed lunch to eat at the studio.

Buddhist Art of Contemplation course (with Leigh Brasington)

Contemplation practice is a comparatively little-known approach to insight practice which provides a powerful way to explore key Buddhist teachings. My teacher Leigh Brasington is offering a four-week online course in contemplation practice, sponsored by Gaia House, in February 2024, and I'll be leading one of the sessions (offering a contemplation on the Five Aggregates). Please join us!

Dates: