What is a Retreat?

A Buddhist retreat gives you a chance to put aside the concerns and demands of your everyday routine. By getting away from the noise and clutter of the city or where ever you come from, you can begin to relax and open up.

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Many people who go on Buddhist retreats feel more grounded, calmer and in touch with themselves. Those who go on retreat regularly find these qualities pervading the rest of their lives, and can live more and more from their human potential.

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Going on retreat gives you the opportunity to share time, and inspiration with like-minded people from all walks of life. Many people find that a sense of community develops as a retreat progresses, and lasting friendships are born from their experience.

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But retreats are not 'holidays'. They are an opportunity to deepen your awareness of yourself, other people, and the world around you. They give you space to clarify what is essential in your life. And as such, a retreat can be a challenging, life changing experience.

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The daily programmes vary depending on what type of retreat you book, the theme and from Retreat Centre to Retreat Centre. Most retreats include meditation, periods of silence, and other activities such as talks, workshops, study groups, and sometimes yoga. They also have short work activities and free time.

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This site provides details of retreats from eight UK retreat centres, listed on the retreats page.