In our world, we are surrounded by noise, external and internal, which drowns out our peace of mind and inner wisdom and compassion. Semi-silent retreats are a wonderful way of trying out periods of silence – deepening our practice, cultivating inner stillness and discovering insight – whilst also spending some time sharing with our fellow participants.

Periods of 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 this retreat, every morning until lunch, attendees are asked to maintain complete silence, including non-verbal communication. This means you will have time to reflect and discuss with each other should you wish in the afternoons.

Spending time 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.

During this half-silent retreat, led by Buddhist meditation teacher, David Johnson, and accredited yoga teacher, Manu Orozco, we will explore methods for cultivating tranquillity (shamatha) and insight (vipassana) through body, breath and mind.

David will explore the ancient teachings and practices of shamatha and its union with vipassana. Shamatha practice is all about training and improving our focus and concentration. It helps us to unwind, let go of stress and worry, and cultivate mental and emotional balance. With a calm, clear and focussed mind, we then venture into vipassana – getting to know ourselves better, investigating our mind and feelings, and coming to understand our lived experience.

Manu will share practical breathing and asana practices from the yogic traditions which enable us to deepen our tranquillity and enhance our concentration. The soothing and healing yoga sessions also help to improve physical flexibility, strength and resistance.

To help deepen our practice and cultivate inner stillness, we observe noble silence each morning on this retreat. Find out more.