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Throughout the year I run retreats and other events, 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! (I am not currently taking on regular students on a one-to-one basis.)
The list of retreats and other events 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.) If you're interested in something that isn't listed below, please do feel free to contact me and we can talk about it. |
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Retreats, courses and other upcoming events
Jhana retreatsThe jhanas are altered states of consciousness which can arise during samadhi practice, leading to sustained experiences of bliss, joy, contentment and equanimity. These states are not only interesting and enjoyable in their own right, 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:
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 daysSilent 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 a typical daily practice. The day includes full instructions, talks, sitting and walking meditation, 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 reading my book Resting in the Unborn and following the practice instructions in the Appendix) is helpful, but not required. Full instruction will be given. Dates:
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. |