7 Day Silent Shamatha Meditation Retreat in Mid Wales

About the retreat A one-week silent Buddhist meditation retreat in the breathtaking setting of Mid Wales. – Please note that on this retreat, we will observe silence daily until 6:30pm, at which point you may optionally break silence for a few hours of meaningful conversation over dinner. It is possible to maintain silence throughout. – Join us for this silent meditation retreat led by Buddhist meditation teacher David Oromith and accredited yoga teacher Manu Oromith. During the sessions with David, we will explore the practice and theory of vipashyana (vipassana/insight) meditation. A central message of the Buddha’s teachings is that the afflictions of the mind can be overcome through the integration of tranquillity (shamatha) and insight (vipashyana). During this retreat, we will focus on the four close applications of mindfulness, which form the foundation of Buddhist insight practice. These include an experiential investigation of the nature of our lived experience, exploring the very nature of human identity and the possibility of freedom. A central theme during the retreat will be the cultivation of discerning mindfulness, which enables us to increasingly distinguish between what actually appears to our senses and the projections we make onto our reality. We will explore the four applications of mindfulness from both the Theravada and Mahayana perspectives, before concluding with the cultivation of contemplative insight into the nature of the mind as taught in the Mahamudra and Dzogchen traditions. Morning sessions with Manu will complement our practice, as Manu shares gentle asanas from the yogic traditions, which deepen our tranquillity and enhance our connection with the body. The soothing and healing yoga sessions also help to improve physical flexibility, strength and resistance. About Silent Retreat Deepening tranquillity & insight through silence In our world, we are surrounded by noise, external and internal, which drowns out our peace of mind and inner wisdom and compassion. Silent retreats are a wonderful way of deepening our practice, cultivating inner stillness and discovering insight. Periods of extended silence can be a liberating experience, allowing us to get to know our minds at a deeper level. Through letting go of the familiar world of words we give ourselves space from the complexities of social interactions and can come to see our mind and its activity more clearly. How does it work? During our retreat, attendees are asked to maintain complete silence, including non-verbal communication each day until 6.30 pm. At this point, you may break silence if you wish for a few hours of meaningful discussion. It is your personal preference and you can maintain silence throughout the evenings. This means there is a balance between the opportunity to focus on our practice, and opportunities for meaningful sharing with other participants. Spending six days in silence with others is not without its challenges – it can feel unusual and awkward at first, and there may be periods where we feel uncomfortable being alone with our mind. However, attendees often find that being together in this way allows them to explore a degree of solitude while having the safety, connection and support of likeminded people. You will be supported during your inner exploration by each other and by your group leaders who will be around to help you. Prerequisites for silent meditation retreat This retreat is primarily for those who feel ready for silent retreat. We recommend that attendees either have prior experience of retreat or an established meditation practice. However, the instructions given are suitable for both beginners and those with more experience. About the Venue Tranquil eco centre in Powys The Centre for Alternative Technology’s WISE Building is an award-winning venue with outstanding sustainability credentials. Situated in the UNESCO Dyfi Biosphere in mid-Wales, WISE has impressive facilities with stunning views into Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park. CAT is easy to get to via public transport. Machynlleth is on the Birmingham to Aberystwyth train line, and from there regular buses will bring you within a short walk of CAT. Accommodation Clean, bright and comfortable rooms Accommodation options for our group are spread over two buildings, firstly, there are rooms in the main WISE building, all with private ensuites. All of these rooms are bright and airy, comfortable, uncluttered and simply furnished, with views out into the mountains and woodland. The rooms are all single occupancy but can be made up as twin or doubles on request. We also have a limited number of more affordable rooms in CAT’s ‘Self Build’ – these rooms are basic, with shared W/Cs and showers, and could be made into a possible self-catering option. Catering Vegan & delicious! The retreat is fully catered with fresh and delicious meals. Meals consist of continental or cooked breakfasts, a soup and roll for lunch, and a hearty two-course evening meal. There will also be mid-morning and afternoon tea and coffee available. Everything provided will be plant-based. The chefs are skilled at creating tasty dishes that are freshly cooked and nutritious. With gardens bursting full of seasonal produce, many of the ingredients used are grown and harvested from the gardens. And what they don’t grow themselves they try to source from local, organic growers or to use fair-trade ingredients. The Grounds A unique atmosphere of luscious biodiversity Surround yourself with the quiet of sustainably managed woodlands, where nature provides the perfect setting for reflection. As you walk, you may spot red kites, otters, peregrine falcons, and other wildlife thriving in this protected environment. Follow the trails through ancient trees to stunning views over southern Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park, or take the Quarry Trail to explore landscapes shaped by both industry and nature. Once a working quarry, the site is now home to waterfalls, wildflower meadows, and a rich variety of plant and animal life. Pause by the reservoir, the source of the site’s off-grid water system, for a moment of stillness and calm. With three trails to choose from, each offering space for quiet contemplation, this is a place to slow down, reconnect, and find stillness in nature. To Book, for Reviews, Bursaries and more information: 7 Day Silent Vipashyana Meditation Retreat in Mid Wales - Samadhi