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, from dinner on the first day up until lunch on the last day, attendees are asked to maintain complete silence, including non-verbal communication. This means you will have time to get to know the rest of the group on the first day, and reflect and discuss with each other on the last.

Spending four 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.

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

During the sessions with David, we will explore the practice and theory of shamatha meditation. Through shamatha meditation, we train our attention skills and improve our focus and concentration. These practices allow us to unwind, let go of stress and worry, and cultivate mental and emotional balance.

The ultimate purpose of shamatha meditation is to achieve advanced states of samadhi, or meditative concentration, where one is able to focus unwavering attention on a single object. The Buddha strongly emphasised the importance of achieving shamatha in order to achieve personal liberation. Shamatha is, therefore, an indispensable practice for those seeking awakening.

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.