Weekend Introductory Retreats
These are held once a month and are the best way to first learn about our practice. The aim is to help you get a basic understanding of meditation and the essential teachings so that you can establish your own meditation practice at home. The classes include a discussion of Buddhist ethics and their foundation in a compassionate attitude towards all of life. These retreats are also recommended for those who are already familiar with Buddhism but who are new to our practice.
On Friday afternoon please arrive by 5.00pm at the latest so that we can welcome you and show you around before supper at 6.00pm and meditation instruction at 7.20pm. The following schedule gives a general idea of what to expect on the Saturday.
6am: Rising, (tea available)
6.20: Meditation
7.00: Short morning service
8.10: Breakfast
9.00: Spiritual reading
9.25: Questions on meditation followed by meditation
10.40: Working meditation
12.00: Meditation
12.30 pm: Lunch (all meals are vegetarian)
2.15: Dharma talk
3.15: Working meditation
4.15: Questions and answers with tea
5.10: Evening service and meditation
6.00: Supper
7.50: Meditation
9.00: Quiet time
10.00: Lights out