Wow factors on our retreat
• SILENCE – intimidating at first, when you sit around a table with only the sound of cutlery on crockery, but once you get used to observing silence most of the time it’s powerful (there were still some fireside chats and discussions). When you aren’t talking much, you observe and experience things on a visceral level; you have time to consolidate thoughts and feelings. The schedule and routine of the retreat programme also gives your soul space to breathe: you don’t have to think about what you’re going to do or say next – mealtimes and lectures, meditation and yoga sessions and even a rising gong to wake you are all in place already. Not worrying, just being, is so refreshing. • THE LIBRARY – before lectures, there was time to choose from a collection of books on philosophy, Buddhism, meditation and more. It’s a special space to read and learn. • ZEN GARDEN – there’s also a little dedicated Zen garden and labyrinth. Feeling so strongly connected to nature was hugely uplifting. • ‘CRY THE BELOVED CRUNCHIES’ – delectable cookies with tea – always more than one big steaming pot.