27-29 Sept | Secret Wings: Autumn Weekend Retreat

Secret Wings - Autumn Weekend Retreat

Timings: Friday evening, 27th September - Sunday afternoon, 29th September Led by: Prajnanandi and Matt Clark Location: Rivendell Retreat Centre Cost: £150 Suitability: All levels Have you ever felt "there must be more to life than this"? We all long for happiness and freedom from suffering, yet this search can seem futile in this restless and hostile world. Most of us struggle to find the energy and dedication we need for this quest. As a result, we feel unhappy and trapped. Fortunately, we can turn to ancient teachings and practices to change our lives.

Buddhism empowers us to dream big and develop confidence in our potential. The Buddha taught we all have 'secret wings', but we need to learn to use them to fly. According to the teachings, five mental states hold us back from freedom and happiness: worry, ill will, sloth/torpor, doubt, and sense desire. We can learn to overcome these mental states, shake off our burdens, and soar. In the words of the Buddha:

When we see ourselves free of the five hindrances, joy arises; in one who is joyful, rapture arises; in one whose mind is enraptured, the body is stilled; the body being stilled, we feel happiness; and a happy mind finds concentration. (The Samaññaphala Sutta)

What will happen during this retreat?

On this retreat, we will explore how to free ourselves from these mental states through meditation and yoga. These practices will help us relax and energize our mind and body. As a result, more open, spacious, and sublime states of being can arise. In the evenings, shared rituals will help bring body and mind together in harmony.

Experienced meditation and yoga teachers will guide and support you throughout the retreat. Expect comfortable silences, shared rituals, and a chance to learn more about yourself. All this, surrounded by the autumnal colors and peace of the Sussex countryside. How long is the retreat?

The retreat starts with dinner on Friday evening and ends just after lunch on Sunday.

Who is this retreat for?

It is suitable for anyone who is open to an inspiring weekend in the countryside, no prior experience of Buddhist meditation or yoga is necessary. If you have not been to a retreat before, this is a great opportunity to experience this Buddhist practice with like-minded people. You don't need to be an accomplished yogi to come and enjoy the retreat! The classes will be suitable for all levels. While yoga is an integral part of the retreat, you are also very welcome to come if your physical abilities would not allow you to take part in this practice.  For more information about Rivendell Retreat Centre and what it is like to be on retreat there, as well as for travel information and FAQs, click here.

Retreat costs

This retreat is priced at £150 per person and includes accommodation (in simple shared rooms), the use of yoga and meditation equipment, good vegan food, and all the teaching. If this is too much, please do get in touch with us - we have a few bursary places available. We don't want lack of money to prevent anyone coming on retreat. Please note, the price includes a £50 non-refundable deposit.