Contemplative Walking
Bank Holiday Weekend Retreat
with John Douglas
Friday 1 August, 7.30pm to Monday 4 August, 2.30pm
“Walk as if you are kissing the Earth with your feet.” Thich Nhat Hanh
Enjoy a Bank Holiday weekend break experiencing mindfulness in action through meditation and relaxed walking on beautiful trails on the Beara Peninsula.
This popular event focuses on cultivating mindfulness in action, combining morning and evening meditation with leisurely, contemplative walks.
Strolling together on local trails there is time to chat and get to know each other as well as periods of silence conducive to a more contemplative, reflective walking experience.
Invitations to pause, to be still and simply present with the sights, sounds and scents of the world around you will infuse your experience. Sharing the beauty of nature, in the silent presence of others, we start to see that the same beauty of nature is also reflected in the heart of everyone.
This event is suitable for people new to meditation as well as those with previous experience.
What you will need
-Walking boots are essential.
-Walks are between five and nine kilometres long on recognised local walking routes.
-Please note that all routes include some rough ground as well as slippery wet surfaces and hilly bits so .
-The walks will be done at a leisurely pace and suitable for anyone with a reasonable level of walking fitness. This is not a hiking weekend but some routes do require a bit of a scramble now and then.
Content Summary
- An introduction to mindfulness meditation focussing on our senses
- Integrating mindfulness into movement
- Guided daily walked of between 5 to 9 km length over 3 to 4 hours
- Packed lunches provided
- Suitable for all ages over 18 with basic level of fitness
The schedule for this event changes according to the weather.
Location
The retreat will be held in our new Dzogchen Beara Temple. With expansive views across the bay, the temple is a modern example of a traditional Tibetan monastery, a form of architecture designed to be an inspiring symbol of the Buddha’s teachings for our times.
Catering
Vegetarian packed lunches and substantial evening meals are provided as part of your fee.
Fee €310
Concession €260
Dzogchen Beara has a policy of not turning anyone away for financial reasons.
Please email info@dzogchenbeara.org to request assistance from our retreat fund or to discuss flexible payment options.
A list of hostels, B&B’s self-catering accommodation and hotels in the local area is available here.
Vegetarian lunches including packed lunches and light evening meals are provided. The cost is included in your fee.
To view our visitor information, please click here.
John is a Counsellor & Psychotherapist, accredited with the IACP, working in private practice in Castletownbere and in ARC Cancer Support House in Bantry, as well as being part of the care team supporting guests at the Care Centre in Dzogchen Beara.